Bowstrings

The string in a few words

The bowstring refers to the synthetic strand that attaches to the ends of the limbs: on the upper limb tip and on the lower limb tip.

To shoot, you must nock the arrow and draw the string to get into shooting position. During this phase, the archer stores energy in the limbs. But ultimately, it's the string that will transfer this energy to the arrow to send it toward the target. This element therefore plays an essential role in the overall performance of your shot.

Highly stressed, subjected to friction, weather, UV... the bowstring is a consumable that should be replaced regularly to ensure consistent and performant shooting. 

Sold ready to use, know that a string can also be made or simply repaired. Spools of materials, as well as all tools are available in our archery tools category.

Which string suits your bow?

Which string should you choose for a competition bow, hunting bow, longbow, compound bow, or barebow?

Actually, there are standard strings that can match all types of bows. But for example, we would rather choose braided strings to equip a traditional bow or hunting bow and strings with serving loops for Olympic recurve bows or barebow

To find the right string for your bow, we invite you to refer to the criteria below:

The material

• Dacron: it's a resistant polyester characterized by a certain flexibility, perfectly suited for wooden beginner bows and entry-level traditional bows.
• Fast Flight: or Spectra is a durable material that surprisingly withstands harsh outdoor conditions and weather. It's one of the most used.
• Dynema: it's a very fine polyethylene. It's less flexible than Fast Flight, it's a very rigid and resistant strand that is mainly used by archers looking for speed, consistency and precision. The limbs must also be of quality to withstand repeated use with this type of material.

To summarize:

Beginners will be comfortable with a Dacron string. In competition, Fast Flight or Dynema strings are preferred for their speed, durability and stability.

Make your choice based on your bow's limb type, follow manufacturers' instructions for traditional bows, and if in doubt: get advice from an expert like Hattila!

The length

Too short, the string causes maximum tension on the limbs, too long, it creates vibrations.
It is therefore essential to have the string adapted to your bow's length for the brace height to be consistent.

The number of strands

The number of strands in a string will be closely linked to the bow's draw weight. Here is an indicative table to help you figure it out:

The manufacturing method

On one side, we have standard strings, on the other, we have braided strings (also called Flemish strings).

Traditional bows will opt for the aesthetics and robustness of braided strings. 

Olympic recurve bows and barebow will rather choose standard strings.

How to maintain your bow string?

To extend the life of your string, it needs to be maintained, particularly by properly nourishing it and regularly hydrating it.

The monthly use of a specific wax is recommended at minimum.

Need advice on how to apply it? No worries with our blog article "how to wax a string?"