Recurve Bow String Length: The Ultimate Guide You Need!
Understanding recurve bow string length is crucial for any archer aiming for accuracy and consistency. Brace height, a measurement directly impacted by the correct string length, significantly affects your bow’s performance. The Archery Trade Association (ATA), a leading organization in archery standards, provides guidelines that can help you determine the appropriate string length for your bow. Incorrect string length can lead to issues such as poor arrow flight and even damage to your bow limbs, so taking the time to learn the correct recurve bow string length for your draw length, will help keep your bow functional and safe.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Kramer Ammons , from the video titled How to Order The Correct BOWSTRING — No More CONFUSION. .
Understanding Recurve Bow String Length: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide provides everything you need to understand recurve bow string length, ensuring you choose the correct string for optimal performance and safety.
Why Recurve Bow String Length Matters
Choosing the right recurve bow string length is crucial for several reasons. A string that’s too short or too long can negatively affect:
- Bow Performance: Incorrect string length impacts draw weight, arrow speed, and overall accuracy.
- Bow Safety: Using an incompatible string can overstress the bow limbs, potentially leading to damage or failure.
- Shooter Comfort: The wrong string length can make it difficult to achieve a consistent and comfortable draw.
Determining Your Ideal Recurve Bow String Length
The string length you need depends on the bow’s AMO (Archery Manufacturers Organization) length. However, it’s not a direct one-to-one correlation.
Understanding AMO Bow Length
AMO bow length refers to the length of the bow when strung, measured from string groove to string groove along the back of the bow. This is usually marked on the bow itself.
The Formula for Recurve Bow String Length
Generally, the recurve bow string length should be 3 to 4 inches shorter than the AMO bow length.
- Example: If your bow is an AMO 66", the ideal string length would be between 62" and 63".
Accounting for Bow Type and Material
While the 3-4 inch rule is a good starting point, consider these factors:
- Older Bows: Vintage or older recurve bows might have slight variations in their AMO length compared to modern bows. It is often best to err on the side of a slightly longer string for vintage bows to ensure that the string does not put too much stress on the limbs.
- String Material: String materials like B50 Dacron are more forgiving in terms of length variance compared to low-stretch materials like FastFlight. A low-stretch string will have much less forgiveness and therefore you need to be much more accurate with its length.
Measuring Your Existing Recurve Bow String
If you have an existing string, accurately measuring it is important to ensure you get the correct replacement.
How to Measure Recurve Bow String Length
- Remove the string from the bow.
- Lay the string on a flat surface.
- Attach one end to a fixed point.
- Apply a gentle tension to the string (not excessive).
- Measure from the inside of one loop to the inside of the other loop. This is the string’s actual length.
Important Note: This measurement is the "actual" string length and may differ from the AMO bow length.
Common Problems and Solutions Related to Recurve Bow String Length
Here’s how to identify and solve common issues related to improper string length:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Difficult to Brace the Bow | String too short | Use a longer string. Double-check AMO length and calculate the correct string length. |
| Excessive Draw Weight | String too short | Use a longer string. Monitor draw weight using a bow scale. |
| Bow feels "mushy" or weak when drawing | String too long | Use a shorter string. Ensure the string fits snugly into the string grooves when braced. |
| String comes off the bow easily | String is stretched too far/ String is too long. | Use a shorter string. Inspect the string for wear or damage and replace it if necessary. |
When to Replace Your Recurve Bow String
Regular inspection and timely replacement are crucial for safety and performance. Consider replacing your string if:
- Fraying or Damage: Any visible fraying, cuts, or damage to the string.
- Excessive Stretching: If the string appears significantly longer than its original length.
- After Extended Use: Even if it looks okay, replace it every 1-2 years (depending on frequency of use).
- After a Dry Fire: A dry fire (drawing and releasing the bow without an arrow) can severely damage a string, even if it’s not immediately apparent. Replace it immediately.
FAQs: Recurve Bow String Length
Here are some frequently asked questions about recurve bow string length to help you find the perfect fit and improve your archery experience.
How do I measure my recurve bow to determine the correct string length?
The most accurate method is to use a bow stringer to safely brace your bow. Then, measure the actual string length from string groove to string groove. This measurement, typically a few inches shorter than the AMO bow length, will give you a good indication of the correct recurve bow string length needed.
What happens if my recurve bow string is too long?
If the recurve bow string is too long, your brace height will be too low. This can lead to poor arrow flight, increased hand shock, and reduced overall performance. You might also experience difficulty tuning your bow.
What happens if my recurve bow string is too short?
A recurve bow string that is too short will result in a brace height that is too high. This can cause the bow to be difficult to draw and may also increase the risk of damage to the bow limbs.
Is there a general rule for determining recurve bow string length based on bow length?
While not foolproof, a common guideline is to subtract 3-4 inches from the AMO (Archery Manufacturers Organization) length of the bow. For example, a 66-inch recurve bow typically requires a 63-inch recurve bow string length. Always verify with the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal performance.
Alright, hopefully this guide has given you a good handle on recurve bow string length! Get out there, practice, and remember to double-check those measurements for the best results.