How to Make a Long Bow String

Long bow strings are required to bear higher proportional strain than the strings for compound bows, so it's important to have a quality string for your long bow. It won't take much time to set up a long bow string the way you want it.

Things You'll Need

• String (2 to 3 bow-lengths)
• Vise or stationary clamp
• Bowstring wax

Instructions

How to Make a Long Bow String

1. Cut your string into appropriate lengths. Depending on the flex strength of your bow, you should use either double- or triple-thickness for your bowstring. Leave a few inches extra at each end to start.

2. Clamp one end of the strings into the vise.

3. Twist the strings together. If you have only 2 strings, this is a simple twist. If you are using 3 strings, you can braid the 3 in a standard braid pattern.

4. When you come to the end of the string, tie off the twist and secure the end of the string so that the twist does not unravel.

5. Keep the string under tension and twisted until the twist is firm and holding.

6. Wax the bowstring. Special bowstring wax is available at sporting goods stores. Use your fingers to run up and down the string, working the wax into the fibers. Be sure to twist along the grain of the spun string as you wax.

7. Tie a loop in each end of the string, and string it onto to your longbow.

Resources

• Bow care maintenance tips
• Bow string wax