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What moves the arrow - The bowstring

Archery is a sport that is as demanding as it is fascinating and success in archery depends on a variety of conditions. In addition to the talent of the archer, the use of sports equipment that is perfectly matched to the archer makes a decisive contribution.

The right bowstring is a crucial element here. It transfers the power of the limbs to the arrow and ultimately delivers it to the target with precision. That's why you need to know how to use a bowstring.

Differences in bowstrings

A bowstring is made from yarn, whereby several strands make up the string. The number of strands depends on the strength of the bow, so a bowstring with 14 strands is usually used for a bow with a draw weight of up to 45 pounds and a 16-strand bowstring for a bow with up to 55 pounds.

There are two types of tendon - the endless tendon and the spliced tendon. In the endless string, a single strand is wound around two rods until the string has the desired strength. The spliced sinew, also known as a Flemish splice, is made from several interwoven strands. The loops ("eyelets") at each end of the sinew are created by splicing in the sinew.

Our ancestors used plant fibers (nettle, flax, hemp, ramie, cotton, kapok, bamboo) or animal components (animal sinew, gut, rawhide, hair) to make bowstrings. Historically, it is known that Mongolian reflex bows (composite bows) in the early Middle Ages often had bowstrings made from twisted walrus skin. Later, the Vikings also preferred walrus skin on their longbows.

Today, bowstrings are made from high-quality and extremely tear-resistant synthetic fibers, whereby there are two main quality categories of string yarn used - Dacron and Fast Flight. Strings made from Dacron stretch relatively strongly, therefore do not put as much strain on the throwing arm and are preferred for cheaper bows. High-quality bows are almost exclusively strung with a string made of Fast Flight. Strings made from Fast Flight stretch only minimally or not at all. Only heat can cause the string to elongate.

Bowstrings are reinforced in the middle section with a so-called middle winding. This prevents the string from being subjected to too much strain here, for example by hitting the armguard. The middle winding also prevents the string from cutting into the fingers when it is pulled.

At BogenSportWelt.de you will find a wide range of standard and special strings as well as care products. Would you like to build your own bowstring? Our online store also has a comprehensive selection of twines and windings from the brands BEARPAW, BROWNELL and BCY as well as accessories from the manufacturers BOHNING, CARTEL, AAE, BEITER, BEARPAW and SPIGARELLI.

Why do I need a suitable bowstring for archery?

A bowstring that fits your bow is essential in archery, because without a bowstring, your bow simply cannot be used. To find out which string fits your bow, you should pay attention to the length of the bow. For the string itself, the number of strands, the material and the design are important for you.

What types of tendons are there?

There are two types of standard sinew: endless sinew, which is wrapped around two rods, and spliced sinew (also known as Flemish splice), in which several strands are interwoven. Loops are formed at the ends of the string, which are then attached to the tips of the limbs. There are also special strings that only fit a specific bow.

What special strings are available for my bow?

Special strings are essential for some bow models. You can usually find out whether your bow requires a special string when you buy the bow or online in the product description. Otherwise, it also makes sense to seek advice, either by phone or on site. Caution: Compound bows also require cables in addition to the string. There are a few things to bear in mind here.

What do twines and windings do in archery?

You need twine and winding to make a bowstring. The string is made from yarn that is processed into several strands to form the string. There are two basic types of material: Dacron and Fast Flight. Dacron strings are particularly suitable for cheaper bows, as they stretch relatively quickly and therefore do not put too much strain on the bow. FastFlight strings, on the other hand, hardly stretch at all and are therefore used for high-quality bows.Bowstrings are reinforced in the middle section with a so-called center winding. This prevents the string from being subjected to too much strain here, for example by hitting the armguard or nocking the arrow. The center winding also prevents the string from cutting into the fingers when it is pulled.

Can I make my own bowstring?

Yes, you can make your own bowstring. To do so, you will need some skill and knowledge about your bow and sinew making itself. Certain materials and tools are also very helpful, such as a string tool, a winding device or a string gallows.

What string length do I need?

The length of the string depends on the length of your bow. The same applies to the number of strings, which is based on the draw weight of your bow. The rule of thumb is: the length of the string is four inches less than the length of the bow.

How do I look after my tendon properly?

To ensure that your tendon lasts as long as possible, you need to look after it properly. To do this, the string should be regularly coated with an appropriate layer of wax. String wax reseals the string so that small irregularities caused by wear and weather do not affect your shooting experience. Simply use a lint-free cloth for this.