Restringing a bow is a necessary task for any archer, but it can seem like a daunting one if you’ve never done it before. However, with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it’s a job that can be easily accomplished at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to restring a bow, so you can get back to shooting arrows in no time.
The first step is to gather your tools. You’ll need a bowstringer, a serving tool, and some bowstring wax. A bowstringer is a device that helps you to safely string your bow. A serving tool is used to wrap thread around the ends of the bowstring to prevent it from fraying. And bowstring wax is used to lubricate the string and make it more durable. Once you have your tools, you’re ready to begin restringing your bow.
The next step is to remove the old bowstring. To do this, you’ll need to use the bowstringer to loosen the string. Once the string is loose, you can simply unhook it from the bow. Be careful not to let the string go flying off, as it can cause damage to your bow or yourself. With the old string removed, you’re now ready to install the new string.
Materials and Tools for Bow Restringing
Bowstring
The bowstring is the primary component of a bow, responsible for propelling the arrow. When selecting a bowstring, archers must consider several factors, including:
- Type of Bow: Different bow designs require specific bowstring materials and construction techniques. Recurve bows, for instance, typically use Dacron or Fast Flight strings, while compound bows employ more advanced materials like Dyneema or Vectran.
- Length: The bowstring length should match the bow’s nocking points and the archer’s desired draw length. Incorrect string length can lead to tuning issues and inconsistent arrow flight.
- Diameter: The bowstring’s diameter influences its speed and efficiency. Thinner strings are faster but less durable, while thicker strings are slower but more resistant to wear and tear.
- Serving: Serving is a protective layer of thread wrapped around the bowstring’s central section, where it makes contact with the arrow nock. It prevents fraying and damage, extending the string’s lifespan.
- End Loops: The bowstring’s end loops connect it to the bow’s string hooks or posts. They must be securely tied and have the correct length to ensure proper alignment and string tension.
Bowstringer
A bowstringer is a tool used to safely install or remove the bowstring. It consists of a pair of arms with hooks that attach to the bow’s limbs and a central hook that holds the bowstring. By using a bowstringer, archers eliminate the risk of string damage or personal injury that can occur when attempting to restring the bow manually.
Nocking Pliers
Nocking pliers are used to attach the bowstring to the nocking points on the bow. These specialized pliers feature jaws that securely grip the serving, allowing archers to precisely position the bowstring and ensure proper nocking point alignment.
Bow Scale
A bow scale is essential for measuring the tension of the bowstring. Correct string tension is crucial for achieving optimal bow performance, accuracy, and safety. Using a bow scale, archers can calibrate the string tension to match their desired draw weight and shooting style.
| Material |
Benefits |
| Dacron |
Durable, forgiving, cost-effective |
| Fast Flight |
High-performance, fast, low creep |
| Dyneema |
Strong, lightweight, low stretch |
| Vectran |
Exceptionally durable, high-modulus, expensive |
Inspecting the Bow and Bow Limbs
Before restringing your bow, it’s crucial to inspect the bow and bow limbs for any damage or wear. Here’s a detailed guide to help you inspect the key components of your bow:
Limb Alignment
Start by examining the alignment of the bow limbs. Place the bow on a flat surface and ensure that the limbs are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the riser. Any visible misalignment could indicate damage or structural issues that require attention before restringing.
Limb Straightness and Cam Timing (For Compound Bows)
For compound bows, it’s important to check the straightness of the limbs and the timing of the cams. Place the bow on a flat surface, draw it halfway, and observe the limbs. Any deviation from straightness or uneven cam movement could indicate a problem with the cams or the limbs themselves.
Limb Deflection and Limb Alignment
To assess limb deflection, hold the bow vertically and apply light pressure to the tips of one of the limbs. Gradually increase the pressure and observe how the limb bends. The limb should deflect evenly and return to its original shape when the pressure is released. Any uneven deflection or excessive bending could indicate structural issues.
Riser Inspection
Examine the riser for any cracks, dents, or other damage. Check the screw holes for any signs of stripping or deformity. Ensure that the grip is secure and comfortable to hold.
String Groove Inspection
Inspect the string grooves on the limbs and cam for any wear, nicks, or burrs. Sharpened edges or rough spots can cause premature string wear, so it’s important to smooth out any imperfections before restringing.
| Check Point |
Inspection Method |
| Limb Alignment |
Place on flat surface, ensure limbs are parallel |
| Limb Straightness (Compound) |
Draw partially, observe limb deflection |
| Limb Deflection |
Apply pressure to limb tips, observe bending |
| Riser Inspection |
Check for cracks, dents, screw hole integrity |
| String Groove Inspection |
Examine for wear, nicks, burrs, smooth imperfections |
Prepping the New Bowstring
To ensure a smooth and successful restringing, the new bowstring requires proper preparation beforehand. This involves a series of steps that guarantee its readiness for installation on the bow.
4. Lubricating the String
This crucial step ensures the smooth movement of the string within the bow’s grooves and protects it from excessive friction. A dedicated bowstring lubricant is essential for this purpose.
Materials Required:
- Bowstring lubricant (wax-based or silicone-based)
- Soft, lint-free cloth
Steps:
-
Gather your materials: Collect the lubricant and a clean, lint-free cloth.
-
Apply lubricant: Using a small amount of lubricant, coat the entire length of the string, including the serving. Avoid applying excessive lubricant.
-
Spread evenly: Use the cloth to gently spread the lubricant along the string, ensuring it penetrates the fibers.
-
Wipe excess: Once the lubricant is evenly distributed, use a clean section of the cloth to wipe away any excess.
-
Allow to absorb: Let the lubricant stand for a few minutes to allow it to fully absorb into the string.
By following these steps, you can effectively lubricate your new bowstring and prepare it for optimal performance and longevity.
Tying a Flemish Twist Bowstring
1. Gather Your Materials
You will need the following:
* Bowstring material
* Serving thread
* Bowstring jig
* Scissors
* Lighter
2. Determine the Length of the Bowstring
Measure the distance between the nocks on the bow. Add 2-3 inches to this measurement for the loops and twists.
3. Make the Serving Knot
Cut a piece of serving thread approximately 2 feet long. Tie a serving knot at one end of the bowstring material. This knot will secure the serving thread to the bowstring.
4. Wrap the Serving Thread
Wrap the serving thread around the bowstring material, starting at the serving knot. Wrap the thread tightly, making sure that it is evenly distributed. Wrap the thread for a length that is equal to the desired loop size.
5. Twining the Strings
This is the most complex part of the process, and getting it right requires practice. The goal is to twine the two strands together in such a way that they form a strong, durable loop.
1) Take the two ends of the bowstring and cross them over each other, forming an X.
2) Take the left-hand strand and pass it under the right-hand strand, then bring it up over the right-hand strand and to the left.
3) Take the right-hand strand and pass it under the left-hand strand, then bring it up over the left-hand strand and to the right.
4) Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have twisted the strings together for the desired length of the loop.
< P >5) Lock the twist by pulling the strings sharply in opposite directions.
6. Finishing the Bowstring
Once you have completed the twists, trim any excess bowstring material. Use a lighter to melt the ends of the serving thread to prevent fraying.
Tying a Continuous Loop Bowstring
Tying a continuous loop bowstring is a method of attaching a string to a bow that creates a continuous loop, allowing for easy adjustment of the string’s length.
Materials
- Bowstring
- Bow
- Serving thread
- Scissors
Instructions
-
Measure and mark the string. Measure the desired length of the string and mark the spot with a piece of tape or marker.
-
Tie a simple overhand knot. At the mark, tie a simple overhand knot, leaving a loop at one end.
-
Thread the string through the loop. Take the other end of the string and thread it through the loop from behind.
-
Pull the string through and tighten. Pull the string through the loop and tighten the knot.
-
Tie a second overhand knot. Tie a second overhand knot on top of the first knot, leaving a loop at the end.
-
Wrap the string around the nocks. Hold the bow in your hand and wrap the string around the nocks, looping the string around itself as you go. Make sure the string is tight but not overly taut.
- Additional Details for Wrapping String:
- Even Distribution: Evenly distribute the string around the nocks to ensure equal tension on both limbs.
- Taut but Not Overly Tight: The string should be taut enough to produce a clean release but not so tight that it damages the bow or string.
- Avoid Overwrapping: Avoid excessive wrapping, as it can weaken the string and reduce its lifespan.
- Knot Spacing: Position the knots at consistent intervals to maintain consistent string tension.
Installing the New Bowstring
Installing the new bowstring is a crucial step in the restringing process. It requires careful attention and precision to ensure that the bow is properly strung and tuned.
1. Prepare the Bow
Begin by removing the old bowstring and inspecting the bow for any damage or wear. Ensure that the bow’s limb tips and siyahs are in good condition.
2. Choose the Correct Bowstring
Select a bowstring that is appropriate for your bow’s length, weight, and draw length. The bowstring should be made of a high-quality material, such as Dacron or Fast Flight.
3. Install the Bowstring
Loop one end of the bowstring over the upper limb tip. Then, slide the loop over the lower limb tip. Ensure that the bowstring is centered on the limb tips.
4. Tie the Bowstring
Tie the bowstring securely using a figure-eight knot. Start by crossing the two ends of the bowstring over each other. Then, form a loop with one end and pass the other end through the loop. Pull both ends tight to create a firm knot.
5. Adjust the Brace Height
The brace height is the distance between the bowstring and the riser at the center of the bow. Adjust the brace height to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications using a bow square.
6. Tune the Bowstring
Use a bow scale to tune the bowstring to the desired tension. The correct tension will vary depending on the bow and the shooting style.
7. Inspect the Bowstring and Shoot
Carefully inspect the bowstring for any fraying, unraveling, or other signs of damage. If any issues are found, replace the bowstring immediately. Once the bowstring is properly installed and tuned, shoot a few arrows to ensure that the bow is performing correctly.
| Bow Type |
Recommended Brace Height |
| Recurve Bow |
6 3/4″ – 7 1/4″ |
| Compound Bow |
5 1/2″ – 6 1/2″ |
| Longbow |
7 1/2″ – 8 1/2″ |
Tuning the New Bowstring
Once the new bowstring is installed, it must be tuned to the proper tension. This is done by twisting the tuning pegs on the bow until the string reaches the desired pitch. The pitch of the string should be high enough to produce a clear, ringing sound, but not so high that the string is too tight and likely to break.
To tune the bowstring, follow these steps:
- Pluck the string and listen to the pitch. The pitch should be high enough to produce a clear, ringing sound, but not so high that the string is too tight and likely to break.
- If the pitch is too low, turn the tuning peg clockwise. This will tighten the string and raise the pitch.
- If the pitch is too high, turn the tuning peg counterclockwise. This will loosen the string and lower the pitch.
- Continue to adjust the tuning pegs until the string reaches the desired pitch.
- Once the string is in tune, check the tension by plucking it and listening to the sound. The string should produce a clear, ringing sound without any buzzing or rattling.
- If the string is too loose, it will buzz or rattle when plucked. Tighten the string by turning the tuning pegs clockwise.
- If the string is too tight, it will produce a dull, thudding sound when plucked. Loosen the string by turning the tuning pegs counterclockwise.
- Once the string is properly tuned and tensioned, it should produce a clear, ringing sound without any buzzing or rattling.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for tuning a bowstring:
| Step |
Action |
| 1 |
Pluck the string and listen to the pitch. |
| 2 |
If the pitch is too low, turn the tuning peg clockwise. |
| 3 |
If the pitch is too high, turn the tuning peg counterclockwise. |
| 4 |
Continue to adjust the tuning pegs until the string reaches the desired pitch. |
| 5 |
Once the string is in tune, check the tension by plucking it and listening to the sound. |
| 6 |
If the string is too loose, it will buzz or rattle when plucked. Tighten the string by turning the tuning pegs clockwise. |
| 7 |
If the string is too tight, it will produce a dull, thudding sound when plucked. Loosen the string by turning the tuning pegs counterclockwise. |
| 8 |
Once the string is properly tuned and tensioned, it should produce a clear, ringing sound without any buzzing or rattling. |
Maintenance and Care of the New Bowstring
Regular maintenance and proper care of your new bowstring are crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Keep It Clean
Accumulated dirt, debris, and moisture can weaken the bowstring. Wipe it down regularly with a slightly damp cloth and a mild dish soap solution to remove any contaminants.
Avoid Excessive Exposure to Sunlight
UV rays can degrade the bowstring’s material over time. Limit sun exposure by storing the bow in a case or covering it with a protective cloth when not in use.
Wax the Bowstring
Bowstring wax improves arrow release and reduces friction. Apply a thin layer of wax to the entire length of the string every 5-10 shots or more frequently in humid or wet conditions.
Inspect the Bowstring Regularly
Inspect the bowstring for any signs of damage, such as fraying, stretching, or broken strands. If you notice any irregularities, seek the assistance of a qualified bow technician immediately.
Replace the Bowstring When Necessary
The lifespan of a bowstring varies depending on the material and usage. Generally, a bowstring should be replaced every 2-3 years or sooner if it exhibits signs of excessive wear or damage.
Troubleshooting Common Bow Restringing Problems
1. Arrow doesn’t fly straight
Possible cause(s):
- Incorrectly installed string
- Damaged or twisted arrow
- Improperly tuned bow
How to fix it:
- Check if the string is properly seated in the grooves on the cam and limb tips.
- Inspect the arrow for any signs of damage or deformation.
- Consult a professional or refer to the bow manufacturer’s manual for proper tuning instructions.
2. String slips off the cam
Possible cause(s):
- String not properly tied onto the serving
- Damaged or worn cam
- Improper cam timing
How to fix it:
- Use the appropriate serving knot to securely tie the string onto the serving.
- Inspect the cam for any signs of damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
- Refer to the bow manufacturer’s manual or consult a professional for proper cam timing adjustments.
3. Bowstring is too long or too short
Possible cause(s):
- Incorrect string length
- Stretching or shrinking of the string
- Improper installation of bow string
How to fix it:
- Measure the string using a bowstring measuring tool to ensure it is the correct length.
- Consider replacing the string if it has stretched or shrunk excessively.
- Double-check the string installation process and make sure it is seated properly on both cam grooves and limb tips.
…. (Recreated and improved section 10)
10. Bowstring jump from the track
Possible cause(s):
- Serving is worn or damaged
- Cam is not synchronized or damaged
- String is too loose or too tight
- Axle is bent or misaligned
How to fix it:
- Inspect the serving and replace it if necessary. Ensure the serving is properly tied.
- Check the cam timing and make necessary adjustments according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Measure and adjust the string length to ensure it is properly tensioned.
- Inspect the axle for any signs of damage or misalignment and consult a professional if necessary.
How to Restring a Bow
Restringing a bow is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the bow or the string.
To restring a bow, you will need the following materials:
- A new bowstring
- A bowstringer
- A pair of scissors
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps to restring your bow:
- Remove the old bowstring. To do this, first use the scissors to cut the string in the middle. Then, carefully remove the string from the bow limbs.
- Attach the new bowstring to the bowstringer. The bowstringer is a tool that helps to hold the bowstring in place while you are restringing the bow.
- Place the bowstring on the bow limbs. Start by placing the string on the lower limb of the bow, then bring it up and over the upper limb. Make sure that the string is centered on the limbs.
- Tighten the bowstring. To do this, use the bowstringer to pull the string tight. Be careful not to overtighten the string, as this can damage the bow.
- Tie the bowstring. Once the string is tight, tie it off with a bowstring knot. This knot is a simple overhand knot that is tied around the two ends of the string.
- Remove the bowstringer. Once the bowstring is tied off, remove the bowstringer.
Your bow is now restrung and ready to use.
People Also Ask
How often should I restring my bow?
The frequency with which you should restring your bow depends on how often you use it. If you are a regular archer, you should restring your bow every 1-2 months. If you only use your bow occasionally, you can restring it every 3-6 months.
What are the signs that my bow needs to be restrung?
There are a few signs that indicate that your bow needs to be restrung. These signs include:
- The string is frayed or damaged.
- The string is stretching or losing its elasticity.
- Your arrows are not flying as accurately as they used to.
