How to Repair a Compound Draw Bow

The compound draw bow operates on a cable and axle system. The axle system is designed to release tension from the bowstring and full draw. The design increases the potential draw weight of the archer and increases the arrow speed and accuracy. The bow is primarily used by hunters and is also valued by archers for target shooting and recreational archery. Making repairs to the bow requires a thorough examination of the moving parts, cables, accessories and limbs.

Things You'll Need

  • Allen wrench
  • Axle grease
  • Knife or razor blade
  • Instant glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the limbs to determine if the bow is repairable. Make a close visual inspection as you run your hand across the limbs. Look for fractures and cracks in the wood or laminate material. If the limbs are broken, they will not hold tension and the bow is not repairable.

    • 2

      Clip your release on the nock loop and draw the bow. Listen for squeaking and feel for resistance as you make the draw. Slowly return the string to a resting position without firing or dry firing the bow. Add several drops of axle grease to the rotating eccentric on each end of the bow.

    • 3

      Complete a full inspection of the bow string and string servings by running your fingers along the string. Also visually inspect the string for heavy wear and fracturing. Add bowstring wax to dry areas and cut off sections of broken serving thread with a razor blade. Replace the sections of serving by wrapping a new section of thread with a serving jig.

    • 4

      Execute a wiggle test on all of the accessories. The arrow rest and sights are the two primary accessories that will affect performance when loose. The string stopper will increase noise if loose and the arrow sheath will rattle. Locate the hex nut attachments on all of the accessories and tighten the nuts with an Allen wrench.

    • 5

      Replace accessories that are not stabilized by the hex nuts. Fractured plastic on sights may be fixed with instant glue but the glue does add scent to the bow. Replacement is the best option for all damaged accessories.