How to Service Compound Bows

Compound bows were initially introduced along with the release aid in 1970 at the Vegas Shoot. Since that time, several bow manufacturers have produced compound bows for target shooters and bow hunters. While each model has slightly different features and designs, each compound bow follows the same basic service and tuning instructions. With the detailed design and specialty equipment, however, servicing a compound bow requires patience, expertise and possibly multiple attempts.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Bow press
  • Allen wrenches
  • Scale
  • Paper tuning machine
  • String wax
  • Target
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Instructions

  1. Draw

    • 1

      Measure your wingspan by holding your arms out to the sides. Take the measurement and divide by 2.5 to determine your recommended draw length. For example, if you have a wingspan of 72 inches, your draw length will be about 28.5 inches.

    • 2

      Insert the compound bow into a bow press to release the tension on the strings, cables and cams. Use the appropriate Allen wrench to loosen the fastening screw located on the cam. Change the cam position based on your recommended draw length.

    • 3

      Remove the compound bow from the bow press and double-check that all strings and cables are in the appropriate grooves and positions.

    • 4

      Use a scale to determine the draw weight of the compound bow. Draw weight refers to the overall force that is required to reach full draw. Most compound bows will feature a recommended draw weight range and will be factory-set at the maximum draw weight. For example, a 60- to 70-lb. compound bow will come from the factory set at 70 lbs.

    • 5

      Adjust the draw weight using an Allen wrench on the limb bolts. Turning the bolt clockwise will increase the draw weight, while turning the bolt counter-clockwise will decrease draw weight. Always turn both the top and bottom limb bolts the same amount.

    Tuning

    • 6

      Move the arrow rest left or right by loosening the attachment bolt to locate the centershot. Centershot refers to the arrow alignment in relationship to the bowstring. The goal is to have the arrow and the bowstring perpendicular with each other.

    • 7

      Shoot an arrow through a paper tuning machine. A paper tuning machine is used to determine how the arrow is flying after being released from the bow. The goal is achieve a tear with three holes from the fletching and a center hole from the field tip and arrow shaft.

    • 8

      Adjust the nocking point or arrow spine based on the tear. A tear with the fletching hitting higher than the tip requires moving the nock point down and vice versa. A tear with the fletching hitting to the right of the tip indicates a stiff spine, requiring a weaker arrow shaft.

    Accessories

    • 9

      Tighten all bolts and screws on all accessories mounted to the bow. Common accessories include the arrow rest, sight, stabilizer and quiver.

    • 10

      Apply string wax to the strings and cables. The string wax helps to lubricate the bowstring and keep it functioning properly.

    • 11

      Shoot the bow at a target to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.