How to Remove the String From a Recurve

The modern recurve bow is a precision-crafted implement that requires regular maintenance and proper handling. Bow manufacturers universally recommend that you unstring your bow after each shooting session. This will relieve tension on the bow's components and reduce the possibility of limb twisting during handling. A cord stringer -- a simple, heavy cord with a leather pocket on each end -- is the tool of choice for both stringing and un-stringing your recurve bow.

Things You'll Need

  • Cord bow stringer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hold your recurve bow in front of you, gripping it in the center of the riser with your dominant hand. Rotate the bow so that the bowstring is parallel to the ground with the front of the bow facing up.

    • 2

      Put the larger pouch of your cord stringer over the tip of the bow's lower limb. Fit the smaller pouch of the stringer over the tip of the upper limb. The cord stringer should now be hanging loosely beneath the bow.

    • 3

      Lower your bow and step onto the middle of the cord stringer, securing the stringer in place beneath the ball of your foot on the same side as your dominant hand.

    • 4

      Pull up on your bow just enough to introduce a small amount of slack into the bowstring. Use your free hand to grab the bowstring loop on the upper limb and slide it gently free of the string notch.

    • 5

      Slowly lower the bow to release tension on the bow's limbs. As you lower the bow, continue to slide the bow string's large loop down the upper limb toward the riser. Lower the bow until you release all tension on the bow's limbs.

    • 6

      Remove the cord stringer from your bow.