Last Updated on May 28, 2021
There are numerous ways on how professional archers string their recurve bow. And I have taken it upon myself to share to you how to string a recurve bow correctly. After all, the improper way of doing the process can cause twisted limbs of the bow, produce misaligned pressure that can cause limbs splitting and can also cause injury brought about by the limbs recoil in the stringing process. So, let’s start…
- The first thing to consider is to have a bow stringer. It is a very cheap tool that is proven useful in stringing a recurve bow. It ensures that the limbs are not damaged during the process of stringing. There are bow stringers that are specifically designed for recurve bows.
- You should also take into consideration your bow’s draw weight and length. Make sure that the stringer’s ends fit correctly to the limb tips of your bow. The most common type of bow stringer is the “double pocket” design but the “pocket and saddle” stringer is also highly recommended.
- The next step is to put the string on the bow tips. The upper limb of the bow is the place for the large loop of the string. It is important that the loop of the string is on the correct side of your bow. This means that the smaller loop belongs to the lower limb. During this step, the bow is at a relaxed position and you will notice some slack or not much tension on the string. The lower limb is the handle’s heavier side where the draw weight is usually placed.
- You may now put the stringer pocket on the tip of the lower limb. In case that your stringer has more than one pocket, the large one should be the one fitting the lower limb. These pockets will secure the string loop in the groove. In cases it doesn’t seem so secure; rubber bands around the loop will do the trick.
- The saddle or the small pocket goes to the upper limb of your bow. Some saddle designs can be placed securely against the bow but some designs require you to hold them in place. The rough surface of the saddle should be placed against the bow’s limb. In this way, friction can be reduced.
- Using your left hand, hold the bow grip horizontally. Your right hand should be in the upper limb, holding the loops in place. Position your bow so that the stringer and the bow string are underneath while the limbs are pointing upward.
- The next thing to do is bend your waist low enough so that the bow stringer touches the floor. After this, step on the bow stringer using both of your feet. Bear in mind to secure the stringer using the balls of your feet to avoid it from slipping. One foot can do the job but more stability can be attained by using both of your feet. This is recommended for shorter adults and children.
- Draw your bow upward. Ensure that you have a firm grip on the bow stringer. This step will cause the limbs of the bow to bend towards the ground. During this process, slide the string loop towards the tip of the bow until it connects to the notch. To confirm that the string is secure, gently run your fingers on the string loop. For the rest of the process, support the string loop with your fingers in case it slips off.
- Slowly lower the bow with the stringer facing the ground. This process should not be done hastily because this is the part where accidents happen. If this is done incorrectly, a string could get loose and eventually slingshot the bow’s limbs to your face.
- If the bow string feels secure, turn the bow around so that the limbs are facing away from you. It is wise to make another check on the string loops. If one of the loops is not secure, repeat the previous steps using the stringer. Remember to do the stringing process without anyone near you to avoid accidents.
- The final step on stringing a recurve bow is to remove the stringer. It was mentioned earlier to use rubber bands in case that they are needed to secure the pockets or groove; remove these rubber bands as well. Your bow is now ready to use with a little tuning so that you can achieve the best results and performance.
In the process of unstringing your recurve bow, just repeat the steps on how you used the bow stringer during the stringing procedure. You should step on the bow stringer and slowly lift the bow upward. The upper loop of the string should be removed from the notch going to the limb of the bow. After that, slowly put the bow into its relaxed position.
And there you have it! Now that you know how to string a recurve bow, always do it safely and never, EVER, be careless.
