Stringing a recurve bow correctly is one of the most fundamental skills every recurve archer must learn. Using a bow stringer is the only safe method—the old "step-through" technique risks twisting limbs, popping strings off tips, and serious injury. This guide walks you through the process step by step, covers brace height, and helps you avoid the mistakes that damage bows.
🏹 Why You Must Use a Bow Stringer
A bow stringer is a simple cord with two pouches or cups on each end. It costs $5–$15 and is included with many beginner bow sets. Here is why it is non-negotiable:
With a Bow Stringer
- Even pressure on both limbs
- No risk of limb twist
- Safe and controlled process
- Recommended by all bow manufacturers
- Easy to learn and repeat
Without (Step-Through)
- Uneven force on limbs
- Can twist or torque limb tips
- String can slip off, causing limb snap
- Voids many bow warranties
- Risk of serious facial or eye injury
Most bow manufacturers explicitly state that using any method other than a bow stringer voids the warranty. More importantly, a limb failure during stringing can launch fragments at high speed. Always use a stringer.
🔧 Types of Bow Stringers
Dual-Pocket Stringer
Has a pouch (pocket) on each end that fits over the bow's limb tips. The larger pocket goes on the lower limb, the smaller one on the upper limb. This is the most common type and works for most takedown and one-piece recurve bows.
Pad-and-Pocket Stringer
One end has a pocket, the other has a flat rubber pad or saddle that rests against the belly of the upper limb (not over the tip). Some archers find this style easier to use because the pad slides more freely during stringing.
Longbow Stringer
Similar to the dual-pocket design but with larger, deeper pockets to accommodate longbow limb tips, which are typically wider than recurve tips.
📋 Step-by-Step: How to String Your Recurve Bow
Step 1: Attach the String to the Bow
Identify the larger loop on your bowstring—this goes on the upper limb (top of the bow). Slide it down the upper limb about 6–8 inches so it rests loosely on the limb. Place the smaller loop securely in the string groove on the lower limb tip. The string should be hanging loosely along the belly (inside curve) of the bow.
Tip: Most bowstrings have loops of different sizes. If both loops look the same, check the string's documentation or measure—the larger loop always goes on top.
Step 2: Attach the Bow Stringer
Place the larger stringer pocket over the lower limb tip (where the string is already seated). Place the smaller pocket (or pad) over the upper limb tip. The stringer cord should now hang below the bow in a slight arc.
Tip: Make sure the stringer pockets are firmly seated on the limb tips and cannot slip off. A slipped stringer during the process can cause the bow to snap dangerously.
Step 3: Step on the Stringer and Lift
Hold the bow horizontally in front of you with the belly (recurved side) facing up. Step on the stringer cord with both feet (shoulder-width apart) near the center. Grip the bow handle firmly with one hand. Pull the bow handle straight up smoothly and steadily. The limbs will flex downward, and the stringer will keep them controlled.
Important: Pull straight up, not at an angle. Angled pulls create uneven limb stress. Use your legs for stability, not your back.
Step 4: Slide the String into the Groove
While holding the bow up with one hand, use your free hand to slide the upper string loop up the limb and into the string groove (nock) at the upper limb tip. Make sure the string seats firmly and completely in the groove on both sides of the limb tip.
Critical check: Visually confirm the string is centered in the groove and not sitting on the edge. An improperly seated string can slip off under tension.
Step 5: Lower and Remove the Stringer
Slowly lower the bow handle, allowing the limbs to straighten and the string to take tension. Once the bow is strung and the string is taut, remove the stringer pockets from the limb tips. Inspect both string loops to confirm they are properly seated in the limb tip grooves.
Step 6: Check Brace Height
Measure the distance from the deepest part of the grip (the throat) perpendicular to the string. This is your brace height. Compare it to your bow manufacturer's recommended range (see section below).
📏 Understanding Brace Height
Brace height is the distance between the string and the grip when the bow is strung. It directly affects performance, noise, and forgiveness:
| Bow Length | Typical Brace Height |
|---|---|
| 62" recurve | 7.5–8.25" |
| 64" recurve | 7.75–8.5" |
| 66" recurve | 8.0–8.75" |
| 68" recurve | 8.25–9.0" |
| 70" recurve | 8.5–9.25" |
Brace Height Too Low
- Louder and more vibration
- String may slap your forearm
- Arrow speed slightly higher
- Less forgiving of form errors
Fix: Add twists to the string (2–3 at a time) to raise brace height.
Brace Height Too High
- Reduced arrow speed
- Increased limb stress
- More forgiving, but less efficient
- String may be too short
Fix: Remove twists from the string (2–3 at a time) to lower brace height.
Start at the low end of the recommended range and add twists in pairs. Shoot 6–12 arrows at each setting. Listen for the quietest, smoothest shots—that is usually your sweet spot. Most archers end up near the middle of the range.
🔄 How to Unstring Your Recurve Bow
Unstringing is the reverse of stringing. Use the same bow stringer method:
- Step 1: Place the stringer pockets on both limb tips, just as you did when stringing.
- Step 2: Step on the stringer cord and lift the handle to flex the limbs.
- Step 3: Slide the upper string loop out of the groove and down the limb about 6–8 inches.
- Step 4: Slowly lower the handle and remove the stringer.
- Step 5: Remove the string from the bow and store it in a pouch or coiled in your case.
- Wooden/fiberglass limbs: Yes, always. Leaving these strung for extended periods can cause limb set (permanent bending).
- Modern laminate/foam-core limbs: These can safely remain strung for reasonable periods (days to weeks), but unstringing for long-term storage is still recommended.
- Rule of thumb: If you shoot several times per week, keeping the bow strung between sessions is fine. If stored for more than a week, unstring it.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Putting the String On Backwards
The larger loop goes on the upper limb. If reversed, the string may not seat properly and can slip off under tension. If your bow has marked limbs (top/bottom), double-check before stringing.
Not Checking String Seating
After stringing, always visually confirm both string loops are fully seated in the limb tip grooves. A partially seated loop can slip off during a draw, causing the limb to snap forward violently.
Using the Wrong String Length
Bowstrings are sized to the bow. A 68" bow typically uses a 64" string (approximately 4 inches shorter than the bow). Check your bow manufacturer's recommendations. A string that is too long results in dangerously low brace height.
Ignoring String Wear
Inspect your string every time you string the bow. Frayed strands, fuzzy spots, or worn serving are signs the string needs replacement. A bowstring typically lasts 2,000–3,000 shots with regular waxing.
🔄 When to Replace Your Bowstring
Replace your bowstring when you notice any of these signs:
- Visible fraying or broken strands anywhere on the string
- Serving separation at the nocking point, loops, or where the string contacts the limb tips
- Excessive stretching that requires too many twists to maintain brace height
- Dry, brittle feel even after waxing
- The string is more than 2–3 years old, regardless of appearance
- Performance changes: inconsistent arrow grouping, increased noise, or vibration
Track Your Equipment and Progress
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✔️ Key Takeaways
- ✓Always use a bow stringer—never the step-through method
- ✓Larger string loop goes on the upper limb; confirm both loops are fully seated
- ✓Check brace height after every stringing and adjust with twists as needed
- ✓Inspect your string for wear every session and replace at the first sign of damage
- ✓Unstring wooden/fiberglass limb bows after every session; modern limbs can stay strung short-term
