Recurve Bow Strings: When To Change

Knowing when to change the string on a recurve bow is critical for maintaining your bow and ensuring your safety. A recurve bowstring should be replaced every three years under normal use, but this depends on the material of the string and how often you shoot. Modern synthetic materials are durable but will stretch and wear out over time. Natural strings need to be replaced more often. If you notice any fraying or damage to the string, replace it immediately.

How often to change your recurve bow string

A recurve bowstring should be replaced every three years under normal use. However, if you use your bow frequently, you may need to change your string every six to eight months. The more you use your bow, the more important it is to inspect your bowstring for any damage regularly.

Age

Speaking strictly in terms of time, a well-maintained bow string can last three years or more. Some archers can get four to six years out of a modern bowstring when properly cared for, depending on how much they shoot. That said, three years is a reasonable average.

The longer you go without replacing your bowstring, the more critical proper care and inspection are. Be sure to check the string each time you shoot for any damage.

Damage

As you use, store, and expose your bow to the elements, your bowstring will become worn and/or damaged. It is important to recognise any damage before it becomes a problem or safety issue.

A bowstring is made up of individual strands of natural or synthetic material. The number of strands used has been carefully considered for the strength needed to be safe and effective for the bow style and draw weight. If even one strand is cut, the string needs to be replaced.

Nicks are harder to diagnose because a very small nick in a single strand is probably not cause for alarm, but it will start to fray. This string's days are numbered, and you need to keep a close eye on it.

A bowstring can start to fray over time from repetitive use or if something is rubbing against it. Usually, you will notice the string starting to look a bit fuzzy if it's starting to fray.

You can combat minor string fraying by keeping your bowstring waxed regularly. Modern materials such as Vectran and Dyneema may not need to be waxed as often as older synthetic materials such as Dacron or natural materials.

Cost

When it comes to the cost of replacing your recurve bowstring, you will find that most bowstrings only cost between $10 and $30.

Safety reasons to change your bow string

Changing your bow string is an essential part of maintaining your bow and ensuring safe shooting. Here are some key safety reasons why you should regularly change your bow string:

Prevent String Breakage

The first and most important reason to change your bow string regularly is to prevent string breakage. When you draw your bow, the limbs store a lot of energy. If the string breaks during a shot, all that energy will be released suddenly and without resistance, which can damage your bow and even cause injury. Therefore, it is crucial to replace your string before it wears out completely.

Inspect for Damage

It is recommended to inspect your bowstring for damage before each use. Look for any signs of fraying, wear, or other damage. Even a small nick or cut on a single strand of the string can compromise its integrity and lead to potential safety issues. If you notice any damage, it is best to replace the string as soon as possible.

Regular Waxing

Waxing your bowstring regularly is essential for two reasons. First, it helps keep the individual strands of the string together. Second, it protects the string from moisture, dust, and other debris. Waxing your string before shooting will help work the wax into the string better. However, if the wax on your string is wearing off, it may be time to replace it.

String Stretching

Over time, your bowstring will stretch, affecting the performance of your bow. This is more noticeable with some string materials than others, but all strings will stretch to some degree. While a new string may stretch a little as it breaks in, an old string that starts to stretch again should be replaced.

Draw Weight and Limb Changes

If you adjust the draw weight of your bow or change the limbs, you may need to change your string as well. Going up in draw weight usually requires a heavier string, and changing the limbs can alter the length, requiring a different string length. Using the appropriate string for your bow's specifications is crucial for safe shooting.

In conclusion, maintaining your bow string in good condition is vital for your safety and the performance of your recurve bow. By regularly inspecting, waxing, and replacing your string, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.

Cost of replacing a recurve bow string

The cost of replacing a recurve bow string will depend on a few factors, including the material, the number of strands, and the length of the string. The price of the string itself typically ranges from $10 to $30, with some options available for under $70. However, the service cost for replacing the string can be much higher, ranging from $60 to $140.

The material used for the string is the most significant factor affecting the cost. Popular and affordable options include Dacron, as well as more modern synthetic materials like Vectran and Dyneema. The number of strands in the string may also impact the price, depending on the draw weight of the bow. Additionally, the length of the string may influence the cost, particularly if a custom or uncommon length is required.

It is worth noting that proper care and maintenance of your recurve bow string can help extend its lifespan. Regular waxing, for example, can protect the string from moisture, dust, and debris, ensuring its longevity.

Waxing your bow string

Waxing your bowstring is an essential part of bow maintenance. It is important to wax your bowstring regularly, as this will prevent it from fraying, add a waterproof element, and help retain twists. A well-maintained bowstring can last for three years or more, but this does depend on how often you shoot and how well you take care of it.

This depends on various factors, including humidity, how often you shoot, and the presence of dirt. Ideally, your string should always feel slightly tacky. If it feels slick and dry, it's time to wax it. Top archers wax their strings every two to three weeks and will also do so before competition if rain is forecast.

How to Wax Your Bow String

First, check your string for any damage and make sure that the servings are intact and that the string has the right amount of twists for your set-up.

Next, apply wax directly to the length of your string by rubbing it up and down until wax is visible along the length of the strands. Do not wax the serving, as this will cause it to unravel and become slippery.

Use your fingers to massage the wax into the string. As the string is made up of multiple strands, you need to ensure that the wax is pushed into all the gaps.

Take a fabric cord, leather, or flexible card and wrap it in a loop around the string. Push this loop up and down the length of the string to even out the spread of wax.

Finally, remove any leftover lumps of wax with your fingers, and your string is ready to use!

Bow string care and maintenance

The bowstring is the engine that drives your bow. To get energy out of the bow to propel an arrow, you must put energy into it by drawing the string. Like a car engine, the bowstring needs regular maintenance to keep up with wear and tear.

Waxing

The simplest thing you can do to maintain your string is to wax it. How often you should wax it depends on many factors, including humidity, how often you shoot, and the presence of dirt. You should be able to touch your string at any time and feel a slight tackiness. If it feels slick and dry, give it a shot of wax.

When you see "hairs" starting to stick up from the strands of the bowstring, like it's getting furry, it's time to apply some wax. If you see individual strands sticking out, that's a damaged bowstring, and it must be replaced.

Applying wax to a bowstring is simple. Most bowstring wax comes in a stick, like deodorant. Just rub the wax up and down the string, then rub it into the string by running your thumb and forefinger up and down. Use enough pressure so that your fingers heat up, melting the string as you work. When you're done, there should be no visible chunks of wax.

Do not apply wax to any serving material. The wax can work its way under the serving material, causing it to slide and separate. Also, be sure not to over-wax your string, as this can adversely affect performance.

Serving

Closely inspect all of the serving on your strings and cables. Serving is the thread that's tied over the top of the string. All bowstrings have serving in the nocking area, and the ends of strings, where they attach to the cams or limb tips, are usually served.

You want the serving to sit in tight coils, neatly stacked on top of each other, on top of your string. Any separation in the serving in the nocking area must be addressed as soon as possible, as this can affect accuracy.

Slight separation of the serving coils in other places isn't a pressing concern, but it's only going to get worse and will have to be fixed eventually. If the serving breaks, it must be fixed, regardless of where it is on the string or cable. Your local archery shop can fix serving issues, or you can learn to do it yourself. However, reserving some areas on compound bows will require a bow press.

String Stretch

Recurve archers should constantly measure their bow's brace height to check for string stretch. The brace height is the distance between the throat of the grip and the string. Over time, the brace height on a recurve can shrink if the string stretches, especially within the first few days after a new string is put on a bow.

In this case, unstring the bow and add twists to it until the brace height is where it needs to be. Twisting the string will increase the brace height.

When to Replace

A recurve bowstring should be replaced every three years under normal use. The string should be replaced sooner if it becomes frayed, worn, or otherwise damaged. Modern synthetic materials are durable, but they still stretch and wear out over time. Natural strings should be replaced more often. Inspect your bowstring for damage before each use.

Replacing your bowstring is an important part of bow maintenance. A bowstring is made up of individual strands of natural or synthetic material. The number of strands used has been carefully considered for the strength needed to be safe and effective for the bow style and draw weight. If even one of the strands is cut, the string needs to be replaced.

A single strand cut probably isn't cause for immediate concern, but it's better to be safe than sorry. A very small nick in a single strand is probably not cause for alarm, but it will start to fray. This string will need to be replaced soon, so keep a close eye on it.

A bowstring can start to fray over time from repetitive use or if something is rubbing against it. Usually, you'll notice the string starting to look a bit fuzzy if it's starting to fray. You can combat minor string fraying by keeping your bowstring waxed regularly.

Cost of Replacement

The cost of a new bowstring will depend on the material, the number of strands, and the length. Most bowstrings for a recurve bow only cost between $10 and $30.

Frequently asked questions