5 Simple Steps on How to String a Bow

Mastering the art of archery requires meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of the perfect bow to its proper stringing. Stringing a bow may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and practice, it can be an empowering and satisfying experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring that your bow is strung safely and effectively, maximizing its performance and elevating your archery skills.

Before embarking on the stringing process, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials. These include a bowstringer, a suitable bowstring, and a bow square. A bowstringer is an indispensable tool that helps maintain the bow’s limbs in their proper position while the string is attached. Choose a bowstring that is designed specifically for your bow, taking into account its length, weight, and material. Last but not least, a bow square is essential for ensuring that the string is centered and aligned correctly on the bow’s limbs.

With the necessary equipment at hand, you can proceed to string the bow. Begin by attaching the bowstringer to the bow’s limbs, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Ensure that the stringer is securely fastened to prevent any accidents during the process. Next, locate the nocking point on the bowstring, which is typically marked with a small knot or serving. Align this point with the corresponding nocking point on the lower limb. Carefully hook the string onto the nocking point, then slowly and evenly raise the bow using the bowstringer. As you raise the bow, continue to guide the string onto the remaining nocking point on the upper limb. Once the string is fully attached, gently release the tension on the bowstringer and carefully remove it from the bow.

Tying the Serving on the Upper Limb

To tie the serving on the upper limb, you will need:

Serving thread: This is a thick, strong thread that is used to secure the bowstring to the bow limbs.
Serving jig: This is a tool that helps you wind the serving thread evenly onto the bow limb.
Scissors

Step-by-step instructions:

Wrap the serving thread around the upper limb of the bow. To do this, start by threading the end of the serving thread through the nocking point on the upper limb. Then, wind the serving thread around the limb, making sure to keep the thread tight.
Use the serving jig to wind the serving thread onto the limb. The serving jig will help you to wind the thread evenly and consistently.
Wrap the serving thread for a distance of about 1.5 inches. This is the length of serving that is needed to securely hold the bowstring in place.

Tie off the serving thread. To do this, make a few overhand knots in the end of the serving thread. Then, trim the excess thread close to the knots.

Here is a

Table

that summarizes the steps involved in tying the serving on the upper limb of the bow:

Step	Description
1	Wrap the serving thread around the upper limb of the bow.
2	Use the serving jig to wind the serving thread onto the limb.
3	Wrap the serving thread for a distance of about 1.5 inches.
4	Tie off the serving thread by making a few overhand knots in the end of the serving thread. Then, trim the excess thread close to the knots.

Once you have tied the serving on both the upper and lower limbs of the bow, you can begin to string the bow.

Twisting the Bowstring

Beginning the Twist

To initiate the twist, rotate the upper limb counterclockwise, and the lower limb clockwise, forming an “X” pattern. Ensure the twists are even and not too tight, as excessive tightness may damage the bowstring.

Creating the First Loops

Continue twisting until a small loop (approximately 5 cm) forms on the lower limb. Hold this loop firmly and repeat the twisting motion, forming a corresponding loop on the upper limb. Bring both loops together and tie a simple overhand knot.

Securing the Knot

After tying the knot, slide it onto the serving knot on the upper limb, ensuring it is securely tightened. This will prevent the knot from slipping. Use a pair of pliers to cinch the knot further and ensure a robust connection.

Balancing the Twists

As you continue twisting, monitor the balance of twists on both limbs. Keep track of the number of twists on each side to maintain an even distribution. If an imbalance occurs, adjust the twisting accordingly.

Checking Brace Height

Periodically measure the brace height, which is the distance between the string and the belly of the bow when it is strung. Aim for the recommended brace height specified by the bow manufacturer.

Finishing the Twist

Once the desired brace height is achieved, stop twisting and tie a second overhand knot below the initial knot. Trim any excess bowstring and carefully remove the serving knot on the lower limb.

Recommended Number of Twists	Bow Length (inches)
45-55	60-64
50-60	64-68
55-65	68-72
60-70	72-76

Tying the Serving on the Lower Limb

7. Make the Figure 8 Pattern:

Cross the two strands of serving over each other to form a figure 8 pattern. The
serving should now be tight against the limb.
Make 4-5 full revolutions of the figure 8 pattern, ensuring that the wraps are tight
and overlap slightly.
Use your fingers to push the serving threads together, squeezing out any air
bubbles. This will help ensure a secure and strong serving.
Secure the Serving: Once you have made the desired number of revolutions, tie off
the serving by bringing the two strands together and making a simple overhand knot.
Add a Touch of Glue: For added security, you can apply a small drop of glue to the
knot to prevent it from coming undone.
Cut the Excess Serving: Use a sharp knife or scissors to trim any excess serving
material, leaving about a quarter inch of surplus beyond the knot.
Smooth the Serving: Use your fingers or a small piece of sandpaper to smooth out
the ridges on the serving. This will help prevent any sharp edges from cutting
into your bowstring.

Fine-tuning the Bowstring Tension

Once your bow is strung, you may need to fine-tune the bowstring tension to achieve optimal performance. Here are some advanced techniques for fine-tuning the bowstring tension:

1. Using a Bow Scale

Using a bow scale is an accurate way to measure the bowstring tension. Place the hook of the scale onto the string at the point of greatest curvature. Apply tension until the scale reaches the desired measurement, typically 120-150 pounds.

2. Tuning Forks

Tuning forks can help you achieve precise intonation. Hold a tuning fork against the bow hair about 1/3 of the way down from the tip. Pluck the string and listen for the resonance between the tuning fork and the bowstring. Adjust the tension until the string resonates with the tuning fork.

3. Finger Tension Method

The finger tension method is a subjective approach to adjusting the bowstring tension. Place your index and middle fingers on the string near the tip and apply pressure. Adjust the tension until the string feels taut but not overly tense.

4. String Height

The string height affects the bowstring tension. A higher string height will increase the tension, while a lower string height will decrease the tension. Adjust the string height using the screws on the bow frog.

5. Bow Hair Tightness

The tightness of the bow hair can impact the bowstring tension. Too tight bow hair will increase the tension, while too loose bow hair will decrease the tension. Adjust the bow hair tension using the screw on the bow frog.

6. Rosin Application

Rosin increases friction between the bow hair and the string. This friction can make the string more resistant to stretching, increasing the bowstring tension. Apply rosin evenly to the bow hair to achieve the desired tension.

7. Bow Pressure

The amount of pressure you apply with the bow affects the bowstring tension. A heavier bow pressure will increase the tension, while a lighter bow pressure will decrease the tension.

8. String Material

The material of the bowstring can influence its elasticity. Gut strings have higher elasticity than synthetic strings, which affects the bowstring tension.

9. Bow Shape and Camber

The shape and camber of the bow can affect the bowstring tension. A bow with a pronounced camber will typically have a higher bowstring tension than a bow with a flatter camber. Additionally, the length and width of the bow limbs can influence the bowstring tension.

How to String a Bow

Stringing a bow is a relatively simple process, but it is important to do it correctly in order to avoid damaging the bow or the string.

1. **Prepare the bow.** Before you begin, make sure that the bow is clean and dry. Also, check the string to make sure that it is free of any nicks or cuts.

2. **Find the nocking point.** The nocking point is the place on the bowstring where the arrow will be placed. On most bows, the nocking point is marked with a small knot or a piece of tape.

3. **Attach the string to the bottom limb.** Place the bottom loop of the string over the bottom limb of the bow. Make sure that the loop is centered on the limb.

4. **Bring the string up to the top limb.** Hold the bottom end of the bow with one hand and use your other hand to bring the string up to the top limb.

5. **Attach the string to the top limb.** Place the top loop of the string over the top limb of the bow. Make sure that the loop is centered on the limb.

6. **Tighten the string.** Once the string is attached to both limbs, use a stringer to tighten the string. Be sure to tighten the string until it is taut, but do not overtighten it.

7. **Check the string alignment.** Once the string is tightened, check to make sure that it is aligned properly. The string should be running straight down the center of the bow.