How to Keep Your Bow and Arrow in Good Shape

Investing in your own bow and arrow is not a cheap venture, which is why it is all the more important to keep them in good shape for as long as possible so you can get the most use out of them and the biggest bang for your buck.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced archer, following the below five tips provided by our archery experts here at Triggers and Bows, will help to keep your bow and arrow in the best shape possible.

Tip #1: Avoid Water

When it comes to your archery equipment, the most important thing to remember is that water is not its best friend. Humidity getting into wooden elements can cause your bow and arrow to swell up and disfigure. The best way to prevent this from happening is to store your equipment in a dry place and not exposing it to rapid changes of temperature.

Liquid isn’t the only water form that can destruct your bow, ice can also have a detrimental impact on it. In extreme situations, such as ice build-up near cams, it can be dangerous enough to cause the string to roll off the cam. To avoid build-up of ice, make sure to not leave any snow on it and to constantly check for any build-up during the winter before drawing the bow.

Tip #2: Inspect and Prevent

Widely recommended by any professional hunting store, it’s a good practice to inspect your bow before each session. Shooting a bow that is not tuned or that is cracked may lead to damage and can also be dangerous for you. When inspecting the bow you should pay attention to any unusual vibrations and loose elements.

Tip #3: Don’t Overdraw Your Bow

The unique construction of a compound bow enables comfortable aiming as the weight you keep in your hands once the bow is fully drawn is hugely reduced. Nonetheless, you need to remember to shoot it only when fully drawn. In modern compound bows, overdrawing is prevented by utilization of “the wall.” Forcing the string over this limit may result in damage.

If your bow does not suit your arm length, you need to adjust the draw length of the bow. Most constructions allow for moderate adjustment that you can do yourself. Some bows may however require a use of a bow press.

Tip #4: Cams Synchronization

If you are an owner of a dual-cam compound bow, you need to inspect the synchronization of the cams frequently. They may become desynchronized due to limb movement of stretching the string. The synchronization of the cams has a huge impact on the accuracy.

Tip #5: Wax the Bowstring

Waxing the bowstring prevents premature failure of this element. Make sure you use a proper silicone based blend. Do not under any circumstances use a candle wax. It will be counterproductive and instead of protecting your bowstring, it will destroy it. Silicone is used in bowstring waxes to protect it from water and also reduce fraction between fibres of the string.

Need more tips on how to keep your bow and arrow in prime condition? Drop by your local hunting goods store, Triggers and Bows, located at 340 Bishopsgate Road in Burford and our expert archers would be happy to assist you to keep you aiming for that bullseye every time.