Stringing a compound bow is a critical task that requires precision and attention to detail. Proper stringing ensures optimal bow performance, accuracy, and safety. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to string your compound bow effectively. Whether you are a seasoned archer or a novice enthusiast, understanding the process of stringing a compound bow is key to maintaining your bow in peak condition.
Before embarking on the stringing process, it is imperative to gather the necessary equipment. You will require a bowstring serving tool, a bowstring, a bow square, a pair of bowstring pliers, and a stringer. Ensure that your bowstring is the correct length for your bow; incorrect string length can compromise bow performance and lead to safety hazards. Additionally, it is advisable to wear safety glasses during the stringing process to protect your eyes from potential flying debris.
The initial step involves attaching the bowstring to the bottom cam. Secure one end of the string to the cam using a serving knot, ensuring that the knot is tight and secure. With the assistance of a stringer, carefully guide the string over the idler wheel and attach the opposite end to the top cam. Employ the bowstring serving tool to create a serving knot on the top cam, ensuring that the knot is snug and secure. Utilize the bow square to check the alignment of the bowstring; the string should be perpendicular to the riser and aligned with the arrow rest. Perform a final inspection to ensure that all knots are secure and that the string is properly seated in the cam grooves.
Determining Your Draw Length
Your draw length is the distance from the nocking point on the string to the back of the arrow rest. It is crucial to determine your draw length accurately to ensure optimal bow performance and accuracy. Here are the steps to measure your draw length properly:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms relaxed at your sides.
- Hold a yard stick or measuring tape vertically against your chest, with the “0” mark at the bottom.
- Raise your bow arm and extend your hand as if you were holding the bow. Position the bow grip on the inside of your elbow crease.
- Bring the measuring tape up to the corner of your mouth, ensuring it is parallel to your jawline.
- Slowly draw the bow until your hand reaches your anchor point. This is typically the corner of your mouth or your jawline.
- Hold the bow at full draw and read the measurement on the tape where it crosses the bottom of your nocking point on the string.
- Subtract 1.75 inches from the measurement to account for the distance between the nocking point and the back of the arrow rest.
Your draw length should typically fall within the following ranges:
| Age | Draw Length (inches) |
|---|---|
| 7-10 | 18-22 |
| 11-13 | 23-26 |
| 14-16 | 27-30 |
| Adult Male | 28-32 |
| Adult Female | 26-29 |
Installing the String on the Lower Cam
To install the string on the lower cam, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Identify the correct starting point. The starting point for the string is typically marked with an arrow or notch on the lower cam. This is where the center of the string should be placed.
- Attach one end of the string. Take one end of the string and hook it onto the starting point on the lower cam. Make sure that the string is correctly seated on the cam groove.
- Loop the string around the top cam. Take the other end of the string and loop it around the top cam. The string should follow the cam’s track and be securely seated in the groove.
- Attach the other end of the string to the lower cam. Bring the other end of the string back to the lower cam and hook it onto the opposite side of the starting point. Make sure that the string is evenly tensioned and securely seated on both cams.
- Check the string alignment. Once the string is installed, check its alignment by looking at the bow from the front. The string should be centered on both the upper and lower cams, and it should not touch either side of the limbs.
Tips for Installing the String on the Lower Cam
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a bow press to make the process easier and safer. | A bow press will hold the bow securely and provide leverage for installing the string. |
| Lubricate the cam grooves and string with wax or a dry lubricant. | Lubrication will reduce friction and make it easier to slide the string onto the cams. |
| Double-check the string alignment after installation. | Make sure that the string is centered on both cams and is not touching the limbs. |
Tightening the String
Once the string is attached, it needs to be tightened to the proper tension. This is done by twisting the string at the serving points until the desired tension is reached. There are a few different ways to tighten a string, but the most common method is using a bow press.
To tighten the string using a bow press, first place the bow in the press and secure it. Next, locate the string serving points. These are usually marked with a piece of colored thread or tape. Then, using a string twisting tool, twist the string at the serving points until the desired tension is reached. The amount of tension required will vary depending on the bow and the type of string being used. It is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the proper string tension.
5.
After the string has been tightened, it is important to check the cam timing. Cam timing refers to the synchronization of the cams on the bow. If the cams are not timed correctly, the bow will not shoot accurately. To check the cam timing, first cock the bow and then observe the cams as they rotate. The cams should rotate in unison and reach their peak draw weight at the same time. If the cams are not timed correctly, they can be adjusted by loosening the bolts that hold them in place and then rotating them slightly.
| Signs that the string is too tight: | Signs that the string is too loose: |
|---|---|
| 1. The string is difficult to draw | 1. The string is easy to draw |
| 2. The bow makes a loud twanging noise when shot | 2. The bow makes a dull thud when shot |
| 3. The bowstring vibrates excessively after the shot | 3. The arrow does not fly straight |
Adjusting the Draw Weight
The draw weight is the amount of force required to pull back the bowstring. It is a crucial factor in determining the bow’s power and performance. To adjust the draw weight, follow these steps:
1. Locate the Limbs
The limbs are the two curved, side-by-side components that form the bow’s frame.
2. Find the Adjustment Points
The adjustment points are usually located at the base or tips of the limbs. They may have dials or bolts.
3. Turn the Bolts or Dials
If the bolts are clockwise, the draw weight will increase. If they are turned counterclockwise, the draw weight will decrease.
4. Use a Bow Scale
To ensure accuracy, measure the draw weight using a bow scale. It should be attached to the bowstring and pulled back to full draw.
5. Make Adjustments Gradually
Adjust the draw weight in small increments until the desired setting is achieved. Avoid making drastic changes.
6. Test the Draw Weight
After adjusting the draw weight, shoot a few arrows to assess its impact on your accuracy and power.
7. Consider Your Physique and Skills
The appropriate draw weight depends on your physical strength, bowhunting experience, and individual preferences. A general guideline is to choose a draw weight that allows for a smooth, controlled draw cycle with minimal muscle fatigue. The table below provides a rough estimate of draw weights based on hunter’s body weight:
| Body Weight (lbs) | Draw Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 100-120 | 35-45 |
| 120-140 | 45-55 |
| 140-160 | 55-65 |
| 160-180 | 65-75 |
| 180+ | 75+ |
Remember, these are just guidelines. Consult with an experienced archer or bow technician for personalized guidance on determining the optimal draw weight for your needs.
Tuning the Bow
Tuning a compound bow involves adjusting the cam timing and draw weight to optimize performance. Here’s a detailed guide on how to tune your bow:
1. Check Draw Weight
Use a bow scale to measure the draw weight at your desired draw length. Adjust the limb bolts to increase or decrease the weight as needed.
2. Set Peep Sight
Place a peep sight on the bowstring, ensuring it’s aligned properly with your dominant eye. Adjust the peep sight up or down as necessary for a clear view.
3. Adjust Arrow Rest
Set the arrow rest so that the arrow sits level on the riser and slightly above the nocking point. This ensures proper arrow flight.
4. Set Nocking Point
Determine the correct nocking point by tying a piece of thread around the bowstring and pulling the arrow back. Mark the point where the thread touches the string and attach the nocking point.
5. Adjust Cam Timing
Use a bow press to adjust the cam timing. If the bow is shooting low, decrease the top cam timing and increase the bottom cam timing. If the bow is shooting high, do the opposite.
6. Use a Bow Square
Place a bow square on the bow to check the center shot. Adjust the arrow rest or bow limbs until the arrow shaft is perpendicular to the bowstring when fully drawn.
7. Paper Tune
Shoot arrows through a sheet of paper at 5-10 yards. Examine the paper for arrow tears. Adjustments to cam timing or arrow rest position can be made to correct any tear patterns.
8. Fine-Tune with Fletching
Once the bow is paper tuned, add fletching to the arrows. This will stabilize the arrow in flight and further refine the tuning. Use the “walk-the-paper” method to make minor cam timing adjustments until the arrows group consistently.
| Arrow Tear | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Tail low | Increase bottom cam timing |
| Tail high | Decrease bottom cam timing |
| Point left | Move arrow rest to the right |
| Point right | Move arrow rest to the left |
How to String a Compound Bow Using a Diagram
Stringing a compound bow might seem formidable at first, but following a diagram makes it easier. Here’s how to do it:
- Gather your materials: You will need your compound bow, a bowstring, a bowstringer, a pair of pliers, and a set of Allen keys or wrenches.
- Locate the nocking points: These are small marks on the bow’s limbs that indicate where the bowstring should be attached. They are usually located just above the grip.
- Attach the bowstring to the lower nocking point: Use the bowstringer to attach the bottom loop of the bowstring to the lower nocking point on the lower limb.
- Bring the bowstring up to the top limb: Use the bowstringer to bring the top loop of the bowstring up to the upper nocking point on the upper limb.
- Attach the bowstring to the top nocking point: Hook the top loop of the bowstring onto the top nocking point.
- Tighten the bowstring: Use the pliers to tighten the bowstring until it is taut. Be careful not to overtighten it.
- Check the alignment of the bowstring: Make sure that the bowstring is aligned correctly with the nocking points and the bow’s limbs.
- Measure the distance between the string and the bow’s cam: This measurement will vary depending on the bow model. Refer to the bow’s manufacturer’s specifications for the correct distance.
- Tighten the bowstring further: Use the pliers to tighten the bowstring until the cam is at the correct distance from the string.
- Lock the bowstring in place: Use the Allen keys or wrenches to tighten the screws that lock the bowstring in place.
Once you have followed these steps, your compound bow should be strung correctly. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific requirements for your particular bow model.
People Also Ask About How to String a Compound Bow Diagram
How do I know if my bowstring is too tight or too loose?
A properly tightened bowstring will produce a clear “twang” sound when plucked. If the sound is dull, the bowstring is too loose. If the sound is sharp, the bowstring is too tight.
How often should I replace my bowstring?
The frequency with which you should replace your bowstring depends on how often you shoot. If you shoot regularly, you should replace your bowstring every 1-2 years. If you shoot infrequently, you may be able to go longer without replacing it.
What is the correct draw length for my bow?
The correct draw length is the distance from the nocking point on the bow to the corner of your mouth when you are at full draw. To find your correct draw length, you can use a bow draw checker or consult with a bow technician.
