I've heard that the quick draw perk wasn't functioning... the animation sped up, but if you released too soon (i.e., after the draw anim. completed) the arrow wouldn't go far. Is this confirmed?

Do conjuration if you aren't doing stealth, just like those annoying wood elfs that try ganking me.

Get your sneak up so you can do double damage and use a melee companion

OP stated he's not doing sneak.