Wooden bows are an invaluable tool for archery, but they require regular care to stay in top condition. Maintaining your wooden bow will ensure years of trouble-free shooting with it!
First and foremost, always store a wooden bow in an area that stays dry. Otherwise, it could get damaged and you could miss out on shooting opportunities in the future.
Check the bowstrings
Your bowstring is one of the most essential components of your wooden bow, so it’s essential to maintain it properly. Doing this will enable you to get more use out of your bow and extend its lifespan.
Check your bowstring for signs of damage by inspecting for fraying and fuzzing. A bit of fuzzing may be fixed with some bowstring wax application, but if the string is starting to fray it’s likely time for a replacement.
Broken strands are another indication that your bowstring may need replacing and should be checked for damage. Broken strands can make the bow work incorrectly, potentially endangering both you and the target. The most common place to locate broken strands is under the center serving area where you nock arrows.
Another way to determine if your string needs replacing is by looking for broken strands in other places on the bowstring or cable. If serving coils separate in other sections of your compound bowstring (other than in the nocking area), then it’s likely time for replacement of that portion of the string.
Subtle changes in your bow’s performance or tuning can be indicative of whether it needs a new string. These modifications could be caused by an extended string or one that has stretched.
A bowstring that is too long may reduce the draw weight of your recurve or longbow, making it harder to shoot accurately. A professional bow technician can measure your bow to determine if its string length is excessive, then replace it with a new one.
Once a year, inspect the bowstring to see if it has frayed and dried out. This can happen if stored in harsh temperatures or high humidity. A properly stored bowstring will last a long time; however, improper storage could accelerate wear-and-tear so replacement may be necessary sooner than anticipated.
Recurve or longbow bowstrings should always be replaced at least once annually, to extend their life and save you money from repairs due to broken strings.
Apply bowstring wax
Bowstring wax is an integral component of caring for a wooden bow, as it shields it from moisture which could otherwise cause damage and premature wear. Furthermore, it prevents the strands from fraying or breaking easily.
For optimal bowstring performance, apply bowstring wax every couple of weeks. This is especially crucial if you’re shooting in harsh conditions.
When selecting bowstring wax, it’s essential to select one that meets your individual needs. Also, be sure to read through the package instructions carefully for guidance.
For instance, synthetic bow strings should be treated with bowstring wax specifically designed for this material. Doing so will guarantee your string remains in optimal condition for an extended period of time.
In general, opt for a wax that is water-resistant and free from scents. Additionally, ensure the product is lightweight so you can easily transport it around with you.
When selecting bowstring wax for children and pets, it’s essential to ensure it’s safe. Some brands contain chemicals which could be hazardous if consumed by young children or pets.
For bowstring wax, the most popular option is Tex-Tite. Available in tubes or with its unique box applicator, this American product can be used on both natural and synthetic bowstrings alike.
This bowstring wax is waterproof and odorless, making it perfect for shooting in all types of weather conditions. Additionally, it helps prevent dirt from accumulating on your bowstrings.
Before applying bowstring wax to your string, it is essential to first clean it thoroughly. Doing this will eliminate any debris or old wax that has built up over time.
Next, apply bowstring wax to the string and rub it in with your fingers. You may also wrap a piece of thick cord around it to help spread the wax more evenly across it.
After applying bowstring wax, you can wipe it down with a cloth or cloth scrap to get rid of any extra. You may also use dental floss to gently remove old wax from the string.
Clean the bow
When owning a wooden bow, it is essential to take proper care and maintain its condition. Doing this will enable you to maximize its potential and extend its lifespan.
Cleaning your bow is an integral part of maintaining its condition and keeping it in top shape. A clean bow will protect against rust and other external damages, while also helping preserve its metallic components like cams and idler wheels.
Your bow can be cleaned using either a cloth or special cleaner designed specifically for instruments and bows, which you can purchase from any music store.
The initial step in cleaning your bow is to use a cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. Ideally, choose an item that is dry and free from lint.
Next, liberally apply bowstring wax onto the bow string and cables. This will lubricate them and prevent fraying.
Once applied, rub it in thoroughly. Continue doing this until all strands have been covered by wax. Doing this helps guarantee that all strands are joined together securely and no strands protrude out.
In addition to wax, you should also apply a small amount of oil to the bow strings. This will prevent them from drying out and make shooting the bow much smoother.
After shooting your arrows, be sure to clean them to remove any dust or dirt on them. Doing this can increase their lifespan and make sure they do their job of spooking an animal better.
Store the bow
When purchasing a wooden bow, there are various ways to store and protect it from damage. Ultimately, the most suitable storage method depends on your space availability and requirements. You have two options: use either a case or mount the bow onto the wall.
When storing your bow, it is essential to make sure it’s clean and dry before storage. Furthermore, ensure the environment in which you store it doesn’t get too hot or too cold – this will help avoid damage caused by heat or moisture buildup.
When storing your bow in a case, be sure to select one that is the correct size for the bow. An overly large case could cause your bow to move around and break, leading to damage to its limbs and string.
For optimal bow hangar, hang it horizontally from two pegs that are evenly spaced between the limbs and string. Doing this will prevent additional stress on the limbs due to being hung on pegs.
You can also utilize a bow stand. These stands are specifically designed for recurve bows and can be extremely helpful when storing your bow. They keep the limbs from bending, making it easier to access your bow when you want to shoot it.
Finally, remember to always unstring your recurve bow before storage. Doing this prevents stress on its limbs from the bowstring and increases its lifespan.
It is essential to remember that recurve bows are made from wood, so they may suffer damage if exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity levels. This could result in swelling, warping, and other issues.
To prevent these issues, ensure your recurve bow is completely dry before storing it in a cold location. Additionally, apply oil to its limbs so they can resist freezing and swelling; this will ensure the bow remains in exactly the same condition as when you first purchased it.
