How to Install Bowstrings

Archers use bow and arrow for hunting, recreation, and competition. A properly strung bow is essential to successfully shooting an arrow. Some shops sell bows with strings attached, but smaller, or big-box retailers often do not. Furthermore, attaching some sights or changing draw length requires reducing the bow tension. Even if you take your bow to a professional most of the time, attaching your own bowstrings is essential knowledge for any archer.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow press
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the bow in the bow press.

    • 2

      Tighten the press slowly until the old strings are just loose.

    • 3

      Remove the old cable (or strings) if applicable.

    • 4

      Hold the new cable so that the twist won't come out and cut the string that holds the ends together.

    • 5

      Put the split "Y" end of the strings on the bottom of the bow, and the shorter or opposite end on the top cam.

    • 6

      Replace the old string and cable slides with new items. These generally slide right over the new strings and are hand-tightened.

    • 7

      Check that all connections mirror those you replaced and slowly loosen the tension of the press, watching for any loose connections.

    • 8

      Use the cam or idler wheel and twist until the bow reaches the desired tension.