How To Make Compound Bow String?

Are you a passionate archer looking to level up your gear game? Have you ever thought about creating your own compound bow string? Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but it also allows for personalization and a sense of accomplishment in crafting your own equipment.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making a compound bow string, highlighting crucial steps along the way.

Get ready to impress your fellow archers with your newfound skills.

So, how do you make compound bow string?

Here are some steps for making a compound bow string:

• Set up your jig: Measure the jig’s length from outside to outside of the jig posts.
• Choose a string material: You can use Dacron string, fast flight string, or a string made from beeswax and pine halfting resin.
• Select the number of strands: Some recommend using seven strands, while others use 24 strands. The number of strands determines the string’s diameter and load.
• Tie off the string: Lay out the strands in a color pattern, tie them off on the backside, and leave enough extra material.
• Apply string wax: Use a string maker’s wax, which is a mixture of beeswax and pine halfting resin, to stick the strands together.
• Serve the string: Build heavier strings for different applications, such as building a frankenstein that requires 90 or 95 pounds. You’ll need to use a smaller diameter serving on it so it fits in the cam groups.

By following these steps, you’ll have a top-notch, tailor-made bow string that will elevate your performance on the range or in competitions. Let’s dive in.

How To Make Compound Bow String?

Making a compound bow string requires specific materials and tools, including a strong and flexible string material, serving thread, string wax, scissors or knife, and a ruler or measuring tape. Optional materials such as a bowstring jig, bowstring serving tool, string separator, and string tensioner can also be helpful in the process.

The key tools for creating a compound bow string are a bowstring serving tool and jig, which assist in adding serving material to the string. A bowstring jig is also necessary for twisting the string to create tension. Other optional tools like a string separator and tensioner can be used for fine-tuning the string’s length and tension.

In addition to the materials and tools, it is crucial to have knowledge of proper string length and poundage for your specific bow. Familiarity with bowstring making techniques is also essential for producing a well-made and functional compound bow string.

To ensure a more personalized approach, it is important to have knowledge of your specific bow’s length and poundage. This information will help you determine the appropriate materials and tools needed for creating a functional compound bow string.

Materials and Tools Needed for Making a Compound Bow String

Bowstring Material:

Dacron or Fast Flight are commonly used materials for creating a compound bow string.

These materials are robust, long-lasting, and have minimal stretch, ensuring precise shooting.

Serving Thread:

Serving thread is wrapped around the bowstring to reinforce and protect it from wear and tear.

It also secures the nocking points in place for consistent arrow placement.

Nocking Points:

Small metal or plastic pieces placed on the bowstring to guide the arrow and maintain arrow placement consistency.

They can be bought separately or already installed on a pre-made bowstring.

String Wax:

Used to lubricate the bowstring, keeping it pliable and reducing friction. This extends its lifespan and enhances its performance.

Where can they be purchased?

These essential materials for crafting a compound bow string can be bought at archery supply stores or from online retailers such as Amazon or Lancaster Archery.

It is advisable to purchase these materials from reputable sources to ensure their quality and authenticity.

Tools Needed for Crafting a Compound Bow String:

Bowstring Jig:

A tool that helps create a straight and even bowstring by holding the string material in place during the serving process.

Scissors or String Cutters:

Necessary for trimming excess material during the string-making process.

Serving Tool or Serving Jig:

Used for wrapping the serving thread tightly around the bowstring.

Where can they be purchased?

These tools can also be bought at archery supply stores or online retailers.

Some retailers may offer package deals that include these tools along with necessary materials for crafting a compound bow string.

Measuring and Cutting the String to the Correct Length

Properly measuring and cutting the string to the correct length is a crucial step in creating a compound bow string. This is essential for ensuring optimal performance and accuracy of your bow. Below are the steps you should follow when measuring and cutting your string:

• Gather the necessary tools: To accurately measure your string, you will need a measuring tape, calipers, a flat workbench or table, a pencil or chalk, and a notebook or app to record your measurements. You may also require an unstringing tool, such as a bow press or relaxing tool.
• Use a measuring tape: The simplest method is to use a measuring tape on a flat surface. Place one end at the bow’s nocking point and stretch it to the other nocking point, following the string’s curve.
• Utilize a bowstring jig: For more precise measurements, you can use a bowstring jig. These specialized tools hold the string in place while you measure it.
• Check with calipers: To quickly double-check your measurements without unwinding the string, use precision calipers. Simply place them at various points along the string and ensure they give consistent readings.
• Avoid common mistakes: It is crucial to avoid introducing slack, measuring incorrectly, or recording errors while measuring. These mistakes can lead to inaccurate measurements that can affect your bow’s performance.
• Verify using different methods: To ensure accuracy, it is best to verify your measurements using multiple methods. This can include utilizing both a measuring tape and calipers or checking with a bowstring jig and calipers.
• Use a flat, sturdy surface: When measuring your string, always use a flat and stable surface. This will prevent any discrepancies caused by uneven or unstable surfaces.
• Watch for signs of wear: While measuring, keep an eye out for any signs of fraying or serving separation along the string. These can affect the string’s length and may indicate the need for replacement.
• Measure with a fully relaxed bow: For accurate measurements, it is crucial to measure your string when the bow is fully relaxed. This means using an unstringing tool to remove any tension from the string before measuring.
• Evaluate the entire string length: It is important to measure the entire length of your string, not just one specific area. This will ensure that the string is evenly tensioned and will perform well in all areas.
• Regularly measure: It is recommended to measure your string every few months or several hundred shots minimum. This will allow you to identify any issues before they become major problems.
• Consider replacing for significant changes: If there are significant changes in your string’s length, it may be necessary to replace it instead of twisting or untwisting strands.

The Process of Twisting and Adding Serving Material to the String

The process of twisting and adding serving materials to the string of a compound bow involves using a serving jig to tightly wrap the material around the string in a spiral pattern. This is done with precision and skill, as the tension of the serving material needs to be adjusted as it is being wrapped to ensure it is secure, but not too tight. Once the material reaches the other end of the string, it is tied off, trimmed, and any excess material is melted to seal the ends. This meticulous process results in a high-quality and durable bowstring.

The purpose of a serving jig is to tightly wrap the serving material around the bowstring in a spiral pattern. This ensures that the string stays in place and does not unravel during use. Additionally, the tension of the serving material must be carefully adjusted during this process to avoid it being too tight, which could negatively affect the performance of the bowstring.

Achieving a high-quality and durable bowstring requires skill and precision, as any mistakes or inconsistencies can have significant consequences on its functionality. It is essential to use the right amount of tension when wrapping the serving material around the string. If it is too loose, the serving will not hold properly, and if it is too tight, it can cause damage to the bowstring.

To ensure the serving material is securely attached and does not unravel, it is tied off and trimmed once it reaches the end of the string. Any excess material is then melted to seal off the ends. This step further enhances the durability of the bowstring and prevents any fraying or damage that could occur over time.

Installing Nocking Points for Proper Alignment and Accuracy

Installing nocking points for proper alignment and accuracy on a compound bow string is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. Nocking points, which are small metal or plastic pieces placed on the bowstring, serve as reference points for attaching the arrow. The correct placement of these points can significantly impact the flight and consistency of your arrows.

To achieve optimal results when installing nocking points, follow these steps:

• Determine the Starting Point: It is recommended to begin with the nocking point placed slightly higher than it should be if you are using an arrow rest. This will allow for adjustments to be made later on. However, if you do not have an arrow rest, you can use a bow square to mark the ideal placement of the nocking point.
• Consider Your Draw Style: Depending on whether you draw the bow with your thumb or fingers, the placement of the nocking point will vary. For thumb-drawers, the nocking point should be above the arrow, while for finger-drawers, it should be below the arrow.
• Make Adjustments: Once you have determined a starting point, make gradual adjustments by lowering the nocking point and testing your shots until the arrow consistently hits straight.
• Consider Arrow Type: The type of arrows you use can also affect the placement of your nocking points. For standard arrows, the upper nocking point should be 6 mm away from the arrow rest. For thin arrows, it should be 5 mm away, and for thick arrows, it should be 7 mm away.
• Ensure Proper Tension: When installing nocking points, it is crucial to securely fasten them onto the bowstring without causing damage. Regularly check and adjust tension as needed.

Adjusting the Length and Tension of the String with a Bowstring Jig

Adjusting the length and tension of a compound bow string using a bowstring jig is a crucial process that requires precise steps to achieve optimal performance and accuracy. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Gather your tools

• Before getting started, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment at hand.
• These include a bowstring jig, measuring tape, calipers, workbench or table, pencil or chalk, notebook or app, and an unstringing tool.

Step 2: Measure the string length

• The most straightforward method is using a measuring tape to determine the overall length of the bowstring.
• This measurement should be taken from the inside of the bowstring loops, excluding any serving material.

Step 3: Utilize a bowstring jig for precise measurements

• A bowstring jig can be used to get accurate measurements with ease.
• Place the bowstring on the jig and securely tighten it.
• The jig will provide precise measurements without introducing any slack into the string.

Step 4: Check string thickness with calipers

• To ensure optimal performance and accuracy, use precision calipers to quickly check the string’s thickness without unwinding it.
• This step is crucial as any variations in string thickness can affect your shots’ performance.

Step 5: Make necessary adjustments

• If the string length is not accurate, use the bowstring jig to make adjustments.
• Follow the instructions provided with your specific jig model to adjust the string length accordingly.

Step 6: Re-measure and record

• After making adjustments, re-measure the string length using both methods (measuring tape and bowstring jig).
• Record your measurements in a notebook or app for future reference.

Step 7: Seek professional assistance if needed

If you are unsure about adjusting the string length or are having difficulty with the process, seek help from a knowledgeable archery technician.

By adjusting the length and tension of your compound bow string using a bowstring jig, you can ensure optimal performance and accuracy.

It is recommended to regularly check the string length every few months or several hundred shots to maintain your bow’s optimal performance.

Proper maintenance and care of your bow, including string length adjustment, is crucial for a successful and enjoyable archery experience.

Inspecting and Maintaining Your Compound Bow String for Optimal Performance

Properly inspecting and maintaining your compound bow string is essential for ensuring optimal performance and maximizing its lifespan.

It is recommended to inspect and maintain your bow string after every 100 shots or every 2-3 months, whichever comes first.

However, factors such as frequency of use, weather conditions, and storage practices may also affect the frequency of maintenance.

In addition to regular maintenance, proper storage and transportation techniques can also greatly impact the performance and lifespan of your compound bow string. When not in use, store your bow in a cool, dry place to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity. When transporting your bow, make sure it is securely protected to prevent any potential damage.

Lastly, it is crucial to note that seeking professional assistance may be necessary for more complex maintenance tasks such as string replacement or tuning. It is always better to seek help from an experienced and knowledgeable professional rather than attempting to do it yourself and risking damage to your equipment.

Also Read: How To Shoot A Bow Better?

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating your own compound bow string is not only a cost-effective option, but it also allows for a sense of achievement and personalization in your equipment. By carefully selecting the appropriate materials, accurately measuring and cutting the string, and utilizing proper techniques for twisting and serving, you can produce a top-notch and customized bowstring that will elevate your performance on the range or in competitions.

Having knowledge of your specific bow’s length and poundage, as well as familiarity with bowstring making techniques, is crucial. The necessary materials include a strong yet flexible string material, serving thread, string wax, scissors or knife, and a ruler or measuring tape.

Optional tools such as a bowstring jig, serving tool, separator, and tensioner can also aid in achieving precision and consistency in the final product.

Regular maintenance and care are vital for prolonging the lifespan of your homemade compound bow string.

By following these steps and using the necessary tools and materials, you can impress your fellow archers with your newfound skills in crafting a high-quality compound bow string.