How to String a Ben Pearson Cougar Longbow

The longbow is a great example of traditional archery equipment that has not changed much in the centuries since its invention. The fact that it is little more than a stick and a string holds a lot of appeal for people who desire a connection to the simpler ways of yesteryear. Although the materials and specifics of design are more modern, not much has changed between the longbows of the past and models made today. With proper maintenance and stringing procedures, your longbow will provide years of enjoyment.

Things You'll Need

  • Bow stringer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the lower string loop into the groove on the lower limb tip. The limb is the long, slender section that tapers from the thick area at the handle to the thin area at the tip. The limb is also how the bow produces, stores and releases energy as it flexes during the shooting process. Be sure to align the string properly within the groove that is made to accommodate the string; it should be centered on the limb.

    • 2

      Place the lower limb tip into one of the pockets on the bow stringer. A bow stringer is the tool used to properly string a bow. It consists of a long string, similar in appearance to the bow string, with large leather pockets on either end that fit around the tips of the bow limbs. Place the upper limb tip into the other leather pocket of the bow stringer.

    • 3

      Hold the bow in front of you, allowing the string on the stringer to sag to the ground. Make sure the string of the bow stringer is centered below the limbs. This will prevent any twisting of the limbs during stringing, which would damage the bow and cause a safety hazard. Step on the bow stringer string with both feet centered under the bow's handle area.

    • 4

      Lift up on the bow slowly. You will begin to feel pressure as the bow's limbs bend. Continue to pull up on the bow until it is flexed enough to slide the upper string loop into the groove on the upper limb tip, as you did with the lower limb. Be sure the loop on the upper limb is aligned properly and centered on the limb.

    • 5

      Slowly lower the bow back toward the ground. If both ends of the bow string were properly aligned in the grooves on each limb, the bow will now be strung as you release pressure on the bow stringer. Simply remove each leather pocket from either limb tip, and the bow is ready to shoot.