The only place I find it matters is in terms of luggage. Some longer ATA bows won't fit in some bags.I always hear guys saying they like shorter ATA bows for tree stands and blinds, but how much does it really matter? The triax is 28 ATA I believe, so how much would you notice an extra inch or two on top or bottom of the bow? I would think that if you're within an inch or two of hitting the tree stand or blind, that you're too close anyways.