How to Break Down a Compound Bow

Archers occasionally need to replace the string on their compound bow. Bow strings wear out over time and make a bow unsafe to shoot. The safest way to break down a compound bow to replace the string is by using a bow press. A bow press is a machine that pulls back the limbs on a bow, taking the tension away, so that the string comes off easily.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow press
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the compound bow onto the bow press with the string facing up. Adjust the bottom pins to make them sit where the riser and limbs of the bow meet.

    • 2

      Use a screwdriver to tighten up screws on the bottom pin adjustment.

    • 3

      Secure the bow to the bow press by placing the retaining bands of the press over the top of the bow limbs.

    • 4

      Place the left side of the bow press onto one of the bow limbs, 1/2 inch to 1 inch under the cam.

    • 5

      Attach the side bar of the bow press to the piston.

    • 6

      Replicate the symmetrical connection by counting the holes on the left side bar and repeating the same on the right side.

    • 7

      Apply slight pressure to break down the bow and remove the bow string.