10 Simple Steps: How to String a Compound Bow

Have you ever wanted to learn how to string a compound bow? If so, you’re in the right place. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to get started. Stringing a compound bow is not as difficult as it may seem, but it does require some practice to do it correctly. However, once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll be able to string your bow in just a few minutes.

Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools. These include a bow press, a bow stringer, and a set of Allen wrenches. Once you have your tools, you can begin the process of stringing your bow. The first step is to remove the limbs from the riser. To do this, you will need to use the Allen wrenches to loosen the bolts that hold the limbs in place. Once the limbs are removed, you can begin to string the bow. To do this, you will need to attach the bow string to the bottom cam of the bow. Once the string is attached, you can begin to wind it around the cams. As you wind the string, you will need to make sure that it is evenly distributed on both cams.

Once the string is wound, you can begin to tighten it. To do this, you will need to use the bow press. The bow press will help you to apply even pressure to the string, which will help to prevent it from breaking. Once the string is tight, you can begin to reattach the limbs. To do this, you will need to use the Allen wrenches to tighten the bolts that hold the limbs in place. Once the limbs are reattached, your bow is now strung and ready to use.

Gather Your Equipment

Stringing a compound bow requires a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure safety and accuracy. Here’s what you’ll need:

Bow Press

A bow press is a specialized tool used to safely apply the tension necessary to string the bow. It consists of a frame with two jaws that hold the limbs of the bow, allowing you to adjust the pressure applied. Choose a bow press that is compatible with the make and model of your compound bow.

Bowstring

The bowstring is the heart of your bow, providing the energy to propel the arrow. Select a bowstring that is the correct length and material for your bow. Common materials include Dacron, B50, and Fast Flight.

Other Essential Tools

In addition to the bow press and bowstring, you’ll also need the following tools:

Tool	Purpose
Allen wrenches	To adjust cable guard and cam settings
Bow square	To ensure the bowstring is aligned perpendicular to the limbs
Peep sight aligner	To align the peep sight with the arrow rest
ClothTo protect the limbs from scratches

Determine the Length of Your Bowstring

Determining the correct length of your bowstring is crucial for the safety and performance of your compound bow. Here’s a more detailed guide to help you determine the exact length you need:

1. Measure Your Axle-to-Axle Length

Start by measuring the distance between the axles of your bow. This measurement is known as the axle-to-axle (ATA) length, and it typically ranges between 29 to 35 inches. Measure it twice to ensure accuracy.

2. Calculate the String Length Based on ATA

Once you have the ATA length, consult a bowstring length chart to determine the recommended string length. These charts consider the ATA length, poundage of your bow, and desired brace height. Here’s a sample table for reference:

ATA Length (inches)	String Length (inches)
29	56-58
30	57-59
31	58-60

Note: Brace height refers to the vertical distance between the bowstring and the grip when the bow is at rest. It typically ranges from 6 to 8 inches and should be checked using a bow square.

Attach the Serving

3. Wrap the Serving

Once you have applied the serving wax, it’s time to wrap the serving thread around the bowstring. Start by holding the serving tool perpendicular to the bowstring, about 2 inches away from the nocking point. Wrap the serving thread around the bowstring twice, then tighten the tool to secure the thread.

Continue wrapping the serving thread around the bowstring, keeping the tool perpendicular and applying even pressure. As you wrap, make sure the thread overlaps itself by about 50%. This will help to ensure that the serving is strong and durable.

Once you have wrapped the serving thread to the desired length, cut the thread and tuck the end under the last few wraps. This will help to prevent the serving from unraveling.

Additional Tips for Wrapping the Serving

Here are a few additional tips for wrapping the serving:

Use a serving tool that is designed for the type of bowstring you are using.
Apply the serving wax evenly and sparingly.
Keep the serving tool perpendicular to the bowstring.
Wrap the serving thread with even pressure.
Overlap the serving thread by about 50%.
Tuck the end of the serving thread under the last few wraps.

Table: Serving Thread Sizes

Bowstring Diameter	Serving Thread Size
0.125 inches	0.020 inches
0.145 inches	0.025 inches
0.165 inches	0.025 inches
0.185 inches	0.030 inches
0.200 inches	0.030 inches

Connect the Bowstring to the Bow

Once you have your compound bow, bowstring, and serving thread, you can start connecting the bowstring to the bow. Here are the steps on how to do it:

Step 1: Identify the Center of the Bowstring and the Bow

Find the center of the bowstring by folding it in half. Mark the center with a piece of tape or a marker.
Locate the center of the bow by measuring the distance between the two nocking points. Mark the center with a piece of tape or a marker.

Step 2: Place the Bowstring on the Bow

Place the center of the bowstring on the center of the bow. The string should be perpendicular to the bow.

Step 3: Tie the Bowstring to the Bow

Tie the bowstring to the bow using a serving thread. Start by making a simple overhand knot around the bowstring.
Then, wrap the serving thread around the bowstring and the bow several times. Make sure that the wraps are tight and secure.
Finish by tying the serving thread off with another overhand knot.

Step 4: Check the Bowstring

Once you have tied the bowstring to the bow, check the tension of the string. The string should be tight enough to hold the limbs in place, but not so tight that it damages the bow.

Step 5: Additional Tips for Tying the Bowstring

– Use a bowstring serving tool to help you tie the bowstring. This tool will make it easier to get the wraps tight and secure.
– Use a serving thread that is the same thickness as the bowstring. This will help to keep the string in place and prevent it from slipping.
– Make sure that the wraps are evenly spaced. This will help to distribute the load evenly and prevent the string from breaking.
– If you are not sure how to tie the bowstring, consult with a qualified archery instructor.

Tie the D-Loop

The D-loop is a small loop of string that attaches to the bowstring and serves as a release point for your arrow. Tying a D-loop is a crucial step in setting up your compound bow, as it ensures a consistent and accurate shot. Here are the detailed instructions on how to tie a D-loop:

Gather your materials: You will need a D-loop material (such as serving thread or braided nylon cord), a pair of scissors, and a lighter or heat gun.
Determine the correct length: The length of the D-loop will vary depending on your personal preference and the type of release you are using. A good starting point is to make the D-loop about 1.5 inches long.
Create a serving: Tie a serving thread or braided nylon cord around the bowstring where you want the D-loop to be placed. This serving will provide a secure base for the D-loop.
Tie the D-loop: Using a needle or a small hook, thread the D-loop material through the serving. Create a small loop and tie it securely with a double knot.
Trim the excess: Trim the excess D-loop material, leaving a small tail to prevent fraying.
Burn the ends: Gently burn the ends of the D-loop material using a lighter or a heat gun to prevent unraveling.
Heat shrink the D-loop: Optionally, you can use a heat gun to shrink the D-loop material around the serving. This will provide a tighter and more secure connection.
Test the D-loop: Attach your release to the D-loop and pull the release to ensure that it is securely attached and releases the arrow smoothly.

Item	Description
Bowstring	The string of the bow that the arrow is shot from.
D-loop	A small loop of string that attaches to the bowstring and serves as a release point for your arrow.
Serving thread	A thin, strong thread used to secure the D-loop to the bowstring.
Braided nylon cord	An alternative material to serving thread that can be used to make a D-loop.
Needle	A small tool used to thread the D-loop material through the serving.
Scissors	Used to trim the excess D-loop material.
Lighter or heat gun	Used to burn the ends of the D-loop material to prevent unraveling.

Adjust the Cam

Adjusting the cam of a compound bow is a critical step in the stringing process. The cam controls the draw length and power stroke of the bow, so it must be set correctly for optimal performance. Follow these steps to adjust the cam:

Identify the cam on your bow. It is typically located on the lower limb of the bow and has two wheels.
Locate the cam adjustment screws. These are usually located on the side or back of the cam.
Use an Allen wrench to loosen the cam adjustment screws.
Slide the cam forward or backward to adjust the draw length. The draw length is the distance from the bowstring to the back of the arrow nock when the bow is fully drawn.
After adjusting the draw length, tighten the cam adjustment screws.
Rotate the cam clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the power stroke. The power stroke is the distance the bowstring moves from the fully drawn position to the release position.
After adjusting the power stroke, tighten the cam adjustment screws again.

You may need to experiment with different cam settings to find the best ones for your bow and shooting style. Once you have found the optimal settings, make sure to record them so you can easily reproduce them in the future.

Checking Cam Synchronization

It is important to ensure that the cams are synchronized, meaning that they both reach the fully drawn position at the same time. To check cam synchronization, follow these steps:

Draw the bow back slowly and observe the cams.
If the cams do not reach the fully drawn position at the same time, you will need to adjust the cam timing.
To adjust cam timing, loosen the cam adjustment screws on one of the cams.
Slide the cam forward or backward slightly.
Tighten the cam adjustment screws.
Repeat steps 3-5 for the other cam.

Once you have synchronized the cams, draw the bow back several times to ensure that they are working properly.

Fine-tune the Draw Length and Weight

Once the bowstring is in place, it’s time to fine-tune the draw length and weight. This ensures that the bow is comfortable to shoot and provides the appropriate level of power.

Draw Length

The draw length determines how far the bowstring is pulled back. It should be long enough to provide a comfortable reach without overextending the muscles. To adjust the draw length:

Loosen the draw length lock screws.
Slide the cam module forward or backward to increase or decrease the draw length.
Tighten the lock screws.
Repeat until the desired draw length is achieved.

Draw Weight

The draw weight indicates the force required to pull the bowstring back. It must be strong enough to provide sufficient power for the intended purpose but not so heavy as to limit shooting ability. To adjust the draw weight:

Refer to the bow’s owner’s manual for the recommended draw weight range.
Locate the limb bolts on the back of the bow.
Turn the limb bolts clockwise to increase the draw weight or counterclockwise to decrease it.
Repeat until the desired draw weight is achieved.

Table: Recommended Draw Length and Weight

Age	Draw Length (in.)	Draw Weight (lbs.)
10-14	24-26	15-20
15-18	26-28	20-25
19-25	28-30	25-30
26+	30-32	30-35

Safety Precautions

1. Wear proper safety gear

Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a bow and arrow. This will protect your eyes and hands from injury in case of an accident.

2. Inspect your bow and arrow

Before you start stringing your bow, make sure to inspect it carefully for any damage. Check the limbs, riser, and string for any cracks, chips, or other damage. If you find any damage, do not string the bow and take it to a qualified bow technician for repair.

3. Clear the area

Make sure the area around you is clear of people and obstacles before you start stringing your bow. This will help to prevent accidents.

4. Keep your fingers out of the way

Keep your fingers out of the way of the string when you are stringing your bow. The string can snap back with great force and cause serious injury if it hits your fingers.

5. Don’t overtighten the string

When you are tightening the string, do not overtighten it. Overtightening the string can damage the bow and the string.

6. Use a stringer

If you are not comfortable stringing your bow by hand, you can use a stringer. A stringer is a device that helps to make it easier to string a bow without putting your fingers in the way of the string.

7. Be aware of your surroundings

When you are stringing your bow, be aware of your surroundings. Make sure there are no people or obstacles behind you that could be hit by the string if it breaks.

8. Don’t dry-fire your bow

Never dry-fire your bow (shoot an arrow without an arrowhead). Dry-firing can damage the bow and the string.

9. Store your bow properly

When you are not using your bow, store it properly. Store the bow in a dry, cool place, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

10. Get professional help if needed

If you are having any trouble stringing your bow, do not hesitate to get professional help. A qualified bow technician can help you to string your bow safely and correctly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter difficulties while stringing your compound bow, here are some troubleshooting tips to assist you:

1. Bowstring Not Fitting Properly

Ensure that the bowstring is the correct size for your bow. Measure the distance between the nocks and compare it to the specified bowstring length. If the bowstring is too short or too long, it will not fit properly.

2. Serving Not Sliding Smoothly

Apply wax to the serving thread to reduce friction and allow it to slide smoothly through the bow’s components. You can use a bowstring wax or a household candle.

3. Arrow Nock Not Fitting Securely

Inspect the arrow nock for any burrs or damage. If the nock is damaged, it may not fit securely onto the bowstring. Replace the nock with a new one.

4. Peep Sight Not Aligning Properly

Ensure that the peep sight is installed correctly. It should be positioned level and centered when you draw the bow back. Adjust the peep sight’s rotation or position if necessary.

5. D-Loop Not Tightening Evenly

When tightening the D-loop, pull equally on both strands of the cord to ensure that it tightens evenly. Avoid overtightening the D-loop, as this can damage the bowstring.

6. Cable Guard Not Aligned

Verify that the cable guard is properly aligned with the bowstring. If the cable guard is misaligned, it can cause friction and damage to the bowstring or cables.

7. Cam Not Rotating Smoothly

Lubricate the cam with a bowstring wax or a light oil. This will reduce friction and allow the cam to rotate smoothly when drawing the bow back.

8. Bowstring Jumping Off Cam

Check if the cam is damaged or worn. A damaged cam can cause the bowstring to jump off, even when the bow is properly strung. Replace the cam if it is damaged.

9. Axles Not Aligned

Ensure that the axles of the bow are aligned properly. Misaligned axles can cause excessive stress on the bow’s components and lead to damage.

10. Bowstring Twisting

To prevent the bowstring from twisting, follow these steps:

Unwind the bowstring from the packaging.
Hold the bowstring at both ends and twist it in the opposite direction of the twist that was added by the manufacturer.
Repeat this process several times until the bowstring is untwisted.
String the bow as usual.

How To String A Compound Bow Diagram

Stringing a compound bow can be a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple once you know how. Here’s a step-by-step guide with a diagram to help you out:

Step 1: Gather your materials. You’ll need a compound bow, a bowstring, a bowstringer, and a pair of pliers.
Step 2: Locate the nocking point on your bowstring. This is usually indicated by a small mark or notch on the string. The nocking point should be positioned directly below the center of the arrow rest.
Step 3: Attach the bowstring to the bow. Hook the top loop of the bowstring onto the upper cam. Then, hook the bottom loop of the bowstring onto the lower cam.
Step 4: Bring the limbs of the bow together. Use the bowstringer to bring the limbs of the bow together. Once the limbs are fully extended, remove the bowstringer.
Step 5: Tension the bowstring. Use the pliers to tighten the bowstring. Twist the string clockwise until it reaches the desired tension.
Step 6: Tie off the bowstring. Secure the bowstring by tying it off with a bowstring knot.