Archery Bow Strings
Bowstrings are a vital component of archery equipment that requires maintenance to guarantee extended use. The bow string affects both the draw speed and the speed of an arrow. The cord also affects the arrow's precision while in flight.
What materials are used to make archery bow strings?
- 452X: This string is well-known and in extensive use. However, it is susceptible to fuzzing. Consequently, it requires plenty of waxing over time. The cord is made up of amalgamated materials including Vectran and Dyneema. It offers stability.
- 8190: This string lasts a long time without being changed, even after taking thousands of shots. It remains in required working condition even when subjected to high temperatures. It only needs periodic waxing since it's made exclusively from Dyneema. This string offers durability.
- BCY: Made entirely from Dyneema, it is preferred for compound and recurve bows. This cord has a low creep effect and it doesn't hair easily. This string also has a commendable arrow speed.
- Ultra-Cam: This is made from a combination of HMPE and Vectran, and it ensures low creep. The product shoots well even in elevated temperatures.
What should you consider when purchasing archery bow strings?
When selecting bowstrings, users have to know:
- The span of the bow, measured from one string groove to the other - The span of the bow determines the length of the required string. For a recurve bow, the cord is usually cut four inches shorter, and for the longbow, the cord is cut three inches shorter.
- The number of strands needed to make the bow string - The number of strands is contingent on the draw weight and materials used. The weight of a heavy draw should be handled by more strands.
What are the types of archery bow strings?
The bowstrings available for longbows and recurves are:
- The Flemish twist - A Flemish twist has beautiful interlaced hoops on each end that gives it a laid back, traditional look.
- The endless loop - Its loops are formed by draping serving material, a braided cord, around the bow string.
- Compound bowstrings - The cords come in disjointed parts. The parts comprise the main bowstring and additional cables to fasten the cams.
The specific kind of bowstring and the cable lengths needed are printed on most bows. Nonetheless, for those without, they can be found in an owner's manual or an archery shop's database. Cable color can either be solid or multicolored depending on user preference.
How do you prolong the life of your bow strings?
The life of a bowstring is prolonged by proper storage and maintenance. Approaches for prolonging life are:
- Regular waxing
- Inspecting the cable every day before shooting. Users should check for fuzziness and whether the cable feels dry
- Storing archery equipment in climate-controlled environments - This extends the tool's life by inhibiting string stretch. For longbows and recurves, the string is removed between sessions to prolong life.
Owing to the critical nature of bowstrings, novice users are recommended to seek the advice of a bow specialist when they require new bowstrings.