If you have a recurve bow and would like to restring it, or perhaps you have just gotten a new recurve that did not include the string, you may be wondering what the best recurve bow string really is?
Once you look into the different types of recurve strings available to you, there is a very good chance that you will feel overwhelmed. But have no fear as it is not as difficult as it may seem! Here is everything that you will need to know about finding the best string so you can get back to shooting as quickly as possible.
The Different Types of Recurve Strings
When it comes to finding the best recurve bow string, there's many different factors you will need to keep in mind. For starters, no matter what type of archery you plan on doing, you must know the draw weight of your bow prior to choosing a string. This will help you choose a string that will be most compatible for you.
Once you know the draw weight, it is then time to find the best recurve bow string for your archery needs. While this may sound like a pretty simple task, there are going to be many different string materials for you to select from.
The more traditional type were normally made from linens, animal hide, hemp, and silk. However, with the improvement of technology in archery, the more traditional types have been evolved.
The three most popular options are the 652 Fast Flight, Dyneema, and Dacron. Now keep in mind that these are not the only types of recurve bow string available to you, they are the 3 most common.
652 Fast Flight
652 Fast Flight is a type of string material that has been measured at 100 lbs. of tension and will normally fit bows between 45-70". These come with a bottom loop of 1 ¼", and a top loop of 1 ¾". Coming in many different color options, this is a bow string that is designed to last longer than many of the other ones available to you.
Dyneema
Another string that will last incredibly long, Dyneema is a polyethylene that has an extremely high molecular weight. These come with a 1% stretch and a 100 lb. option. What makes them so popular among the archery community is that they are very light weight.
On a side note, Dyneema is not recommended for shooting any type of wooden bow, including recurve, traditional, or any other type. This is because the very low stretch has the potential to create much more shock when they are shot. For this reason, it is recommended that this type of string is used on composite and fiberglass bows.
Dacron
Designed with the beginner and wooden bows in mind, Dacron is both stretchable and durable. The polyester material is available in 50 lb. and 55 lb. options that have a stretch of 2.6%. This extra stretchability means that you will experience less shock when you are at the archery range shooting arrows.
Dacron strings are considered to be very low-maintenance and typically last a few years before requiring replacement.
Which Type is Best for Who?
Now that you know the best options available, you may be wondering which one you should use? Finding the best recurve bow string for your individual needs is subjective and depends upon the type of archery you will be doing, your level of experience, and even the material that your bow is made from.
For those just starting out with archery, the Dacron string may be the best for you. However, if you are more experienced and confident in your archery skills, a Dyneema of Fast Flight string is probably the best option for you. It all depends upon your skill level and experience level.
What You Must Know When Replacing Your Strings
In order to successfully replace a recurve bow string, there are some things that you must know. For example, what length should your bow string be? How many strands should your string be? Here is everything that you should know when replacing your string.
What Length of Bow String Do You Need?
The AMO (which stands for Archery Manufacturers Organization) has created a special set of standards that all bow manufacturers need to follow. They regulate both the length of the string, as well as the actual bow itself. This is very important, as it allows for consistency among both string manufacturers and bow manufacturers alike.
Basically, each bow will have a length that correlates to the correct string length. Depending upon how long your bow is will determine the actual length that you will require.
Now that you are able to find the correct length of string that you will need to use, you must choose how many strands your string will have. Don’t worry though, as this should not take you very long if you know your bow's draw weight.
How Many Strands Should Your Bow Have?
In order to make sure your string has the correct number of strands, you must first know what your draw weight is. Essentially, the number and material of strands your bow's string requires will depend on your recurve bow’s draw weight.
For example, if you take a B50 Dacron string (which is considered a standard type of string):
Your recurve has a draw weight of 30 lbs. or less
Typically for a beginner to shooting or when using bows designed for the youth shooter, 10 strands will be required.
Your recurve has a draw weight up to 40 lbs.
A 12 strand string will be needed for this instance. On a side note, this is also the strand size that is most common, as it is used by beginners to the avid hunter, all the way up to competitive target shooters.
Your recurve has a draw weight over 40 lbs.
If this is the case, it will require you to use a 14-strand string (keeping in mind that this is with the B50 Dacron string). The 14-strand string will shoot your arrows high but with less distance. They will, however, help to make your shooting more consistent while providing a dampener affect when you are shooting.
The Best Recurve Bow Strings
Now that you are aware of what to look for in regard to finding the best recurve bow string, you will have a much easier time choosing the string to shoot your arrows high and far. Here are some of the best strings you can get on the market that you can use today and will surely satisfy all of your needs.
1. Deerseeker Dacron
Available in 12, 14, and 16 strands, the Deerseeker Dacron string is flexible, stable, and does a great job of absorbing extra ‘shock’ when shooting arrows. It comes in a length that ranges between 48" and 70". An ideal recurve string, it is also ideal for longbows and those with beginner bows as well.
Pros
2. SAS B55
The SAS (Southland Archery Supply) B55 Dacron string is ideal for recurve bows. They come in different strand options of 12, 14, and 16. As for length, they work with bows that require a string length between 48" and 64". It has an end type that is called an endless loop, meaning that it will fit most bows.
Pros
This string contains 18 premium quality strands. Considered to be on the more affordable side, these USA made strings are black and brown in color and will fit bows between 44" and 66". You can expect your arrow to go high and far with this string.
Pros
Final Thoughts – Which String is Best?
Finding the best recurve bow string is no easy task by any means. However, if you're informed of what to look for, you should have no problems at all. After going through the strings available, the best recurve bow string is hands down going to be the SAS B55. With the different strand options and length options, it is simply something that is hard to beat.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. Is it okay to keep a recurve strung?
It is ok to leave your recurve strung if you will be using it throughout the day. If you're not going to use it though, it is best to leave it unstrung.
2. When should you replace your strings?
Under normal use, you will want to replace them every 2-3 years. If you notice that their is any type of damage, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
3. How to string a recurve bow?
Recurve bow stringing is actually quite simple. Once the bow is ready, hook the bottom loop in the groove on the bottom part of your recurve. While holding the bow to your front, take a step through the string and the bow. Make sure the bow is firmly held between the front of your shin and back of your thigh. Bring the top towards the string, seating it properly in the groove.