Procedure to Replace the Cable & String on a Compound Bow

You can change bow strings yourself, saving time and money it takes to bring it to a professional. But don't take this process lightly. The string on a compound bow is under severe pressure, and if the restringing isn't completed properly, it can cause serious injury to you and the compound bow.

  1. Bow String

    • Completely inspect the string before removing it. If there are any weak spots or flaws in the string, it's best to take it to a professional to replace. A bad string is kept in place by the tension placed on it. When that tension is removed using a bow press, it could cause the string to snap and result in severe injury. Before removing the original bow string, take a few photographs of the way the bow is strung. It's also a good idea to make a diagram if you don't have original documentation showing this information. Before placing the new string onto the bow, inspect it for any flaws or weak spots. If you find any, do not string it onto to the bow; take it back and get a different one. A string with a weak spot or flaw can easily snap, potentially causing severe injury to the person and irreparable damage to the bow. Completely wax the new string before installing it.

    Bow Press

    • The bow press is a piece of equipment that's needed when changing the string on your compound bow. Due to extreme tension on the bow arms, a bow press allows you to carefully remove and then replace the bow string without injury to yourself or damage to the bow if used properly. If you're thinking about buying a bow press, they come in a wide price range depending on the brand and features. Several companies also make a portable bow press that can be easily taken out to the range or on a hunt with you.

    Stringing the Bow

    • Leaving the old string in place for now, string the new one onto the bow right on top of the old one following the same path. This is done to ensure that the bow is properly strung, as well as to not remove all tension from the bow. Once the new string is on securely, carefully remove the old string without disturbing the new string and moving it out of place. Once complete, check all of your work to ensure that everything is in its proper place, including the pulleys. Do not remove the bow from the bow press until the check is complete; otherwise, you can seriously injure yourself if everything is not properly aligned.

    Adjustments

    • With a new string on your bow, it needs to have the draw length -- if adjustable on your bow -- and weight adjusted. For bows that have an adjustable draw length, typically you have to loosen screws on the cams, adjust them, and then tighten the screws back up. To adjust the draw weight, loosen or tighten the limb screws, depending on whether the draw weight needs to be more or less.