Knowing the correct process of stringing a longbow is crucial for longbow archery. But what exactly is the right or recommended method for stringing a longbow?
Well, there is no recommended way to string a longbow. Every process that can get the string in place is correct and will work like a charm for the longbow.
However, two particular methods are easier than the others. One of them takes the help of a stringer, while the other one does not require any stringer at all. We will go through both of these methods to make things easier for you.
Table of Contents
Stringing A Longbow Without A Bow Stringer
There is no need to use a stringer if you do not want to or if you do not have it. So, here is how to string a longbow by hand -
Step 1: Prepare the Bow
First of all, you need to put the loops on the bow. Make sure that the bowstring has the right length.
Then, you will need to place the bow right in front of you. Make it face against you, and hold the limb tip with one of your feet. Here, this limb tip will have the loop exactly on the grooves.
Step 2: Push and Pull
While holding the limb tip with your hand, you will need to grab the center with one of your hands and the other limb tip with your other hand. Pull the center of the bow towards you and push the limb tip with the other.
Step 3: Pull the Loop
While pushing and pulling, slide the loop towards the limb tip.
As you do so, the string will take most of the tension, and you will not need to push on the center that much.
And you will be done with the stringing process when the loop is on the limb tip.
Stringing A Longbow With A Stringer
So, things can get a little easier with the stringer. Basically, the stringer will make it easier to string and unstring the bow.
It also makes it easier to restring a longbow. Nonetheless, here are how to use a longbow stringer to string the bow:
Step 1: Prepare Your Bow
If you have a three-piece longbow, you want to install the limbs at this step. For that, follow the instruction of the manufacturers. If you find it difficult to set up the limbs, consider getting help from an archery shop.
After getting the limbs in place, you will need to locate the string loops. Slide the top one down to the top limb. And for the bottom one, place it into the string grooves that are located on the bottom limb.
That said, string grooves will be at the tip of each limb. These are distinctive grooves that hold the bowstring. So, you can assign either of the two limbs as the top or bottom limb.
Step 2: Put the Stringer on the Bow
Attach the stinger by putting it on the top limb first. Place the saddler over the limb. It should be just behind the string loop. And the end of the saddle, which is open and flat, will lie flat on the limb.
After that, you will need to secure the pouch end over the bottom limb tip. Unlike the saddle, the pouch end will be enclosed and securely hold the tip of the bow.
Step 3: String the Bow
Now, you must step into the stringer with both feet by keeping them shoulder-width apart.
Grab the bow's grip with your hands and pull straight up to flex the limbs.
The stringer will provide support to the draw weight when you are sliding the top of the string loop into the limb of the string grooves.
Once the string loop is in place, you must remove the stringer. Make the bow's limbs face away from you and check the string.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are bow strings good for?
When it comes to how long bow strings last, you need to factor in the quality of the material. Nonetheless, if you properly maintain the bowstrings, they will be good for about three years. However, if it develops a broken strand or frays in the middle, you should get it replaced as soon as possible.
How long of a bow string do I need?
It will depend on the AMO length of the bow. Check the label and deduct three inches from the label's number. For example, if the AMO label states 65 inches, you will need a bowstring that is 62 inches.
How to string an English longbow?
For stringing an English bow, you must go through the same processes we have mentioned above. That means you can string the English bow with or without a stringer.
Final Words
See? It is not that hard to learn how to string a longbow! You just have to go just three simple steps. And that statement is valid for processes with and without a stringer.
So, instead of relying on an archer shop and paying extra money, just follow the steps and string your longbow yourself!
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