How to Twist the String on a Bow for Extra Weight

Archery bows are technical pieces of equipment that require adjustments and settings to match your shooting style. One of the most important adjustments is the draw weight -- the amount of force, measured in pounds, needed to draw the bow. While the most common technique for increasing draw weight is to turn the limb bolts located near the limb pockets, you can also twist the buss cable that connects the bottom cam to the top limb at the axle pin.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow scale
  • Allen wrenches
  • Bow press
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the current draw weight with a scale. The difference from your current draw weight and desired increase will dictate the number of twists in the string.

    • 2

      Turn the top and bottom weight adjustment bolts counterclockwise four to five revolutions to decrease the draw weight before placing the bow in a bow press. The weight adjustment bolts are near the limb pockets.

    • 3

      Place the bow in the bow press and compress the limbs until the bow strings are loose. Always position the rollers of the bow press at the base of the limbs.

    • 4

      Unhook the buss cable from the top attachment point at the axle pins.

    • 5

      Twist the buss cable clockwise to tighten the strands and servings. Make about one to two twists for every pound of draw weight.

    • 6

      Hook the buss cable to the top axle pins.

    • 7

      Remove the bow from the bow press while making sure the bow strings are aligned properly in the grooves of the cams.

    • 8

      Turn the weight adjustment bolts clockwise four to five revolutions to return the bolts to the starting position.

    • 9

      Check the draw weight on the bow scale.

    • 10

      Turn the weight adjustment bolts if necessary to make finer adjustments.