Before considering to string a bow without a stringer, you must have had a choice of using a stringer or no choice at all. Either way, stringing a bow without a stringer is very feasible.
There are different ways to go about it and I’ll explore those ways in this article. But before I go on to that, I’ll expose you to some measures or safety precautions to take before considering stringing your bow, especially without a stringer.
Safety tips to consider before stringing your bow without a stringer
There’s a need to critically examine the bow before stringing it. Check for likely damages like a broken part or a weak side.
Pay attention to the string too and ensure it isn’t too weak. If your bow has any of these problems, the next best thing is to get it fixed before trying to string your bow.
Also, to be on the safe side, attach yourself to a professional archer if you’re just trying it out for the first time. This is all to ensure your safety and give you the best results.
Now, back to the different techniques in stringing your bow traditionally or without a stringer.
Ways to string a bow without a stringer
1. The step-through method
This method needs you to pay enough attention and time so as not to damage the bow or hurt yourself in the process. Below are the steps to take to string your bow using the step-through method:
Be attentive to the bow and bowstring
Considering that in this method, there’ll be a lot of bending and twisting, you’ll want to make sure that the bow and string are in good shape. I bet you wouldn’t want a situation where the bow snaps in two or the string cuts and hurts you.
Hook the bottom loop
This is the part where you fix/hook the bottom string loop into the space made available for it which is also called the bottom limb.
Step into the bow
After hooking the bottom string in the bottom limb, the next step is to step into the bow. While doing this, hold the top part of the bow and the other end of the string in your hand. This will leave the bow in between your legs.
Fix the bow position
Hold the bow in between your legs, using your leg as a vice, ensure that your shin holds the bottom limb and your knee holds the grip. This way, the bow will be positioned such that it can be bent to fix the other end of the string.
Bend the bow
Now that you have the bow in position, fix the top string loop in the upper limb. Do this carefully so that it doesn’t snap in two.
Adjust and step out
If you follow the steps mentioned above then you’ve successfully strung your bow without a stringer. So you can step out of the bow now as it is ready for use.
2. The Foot bracing method
This method isn’t as complicated as the first one. It’s the easiest of the two. It is quite easy as the only requirement is a little muscle and strength. You’d be needing it because you’ll have to exert some energy to get it done. Here’s how to go about it:
Pay attention to the bow and bowstring
Like in the first method, this is also applicable to this method. Your safety should not be compromised under any circumstance. So, ensure that your bow and bowstring are in their best shape first before commencing the stringing.
Positioning the bow
The best way to position the bow is to place it under your feet. That is after you must have fixed the bottom string loop in the bottom limb.
Looping the string
This part is the tricky part and it requires a little strength and muscles. In trying to loop the other end of the string to the upper limb, you have to be conscious of the fact that you’re holding the bow beneath your leg and don’t lose your grip.
Also, ensure that you’re holding the bow a bit closer to your chest. Having done that, you can now slide the other end of the string to the other limb.
Test it
After you’ve successfully strung your bow using this method, the next step is to test it. All you have to do is take the bow from under your feet gently and feel the tension of the string. Ensure that it’s taut enough but not too strong that it can snap anytime.
Conclusion
Although, the ways of stringing your bow without a stringer have been considered, stringing a bow doesn’t just stop at that.
Aside from taking safety measures by checking the bow and the string, the clothes you wear during the process also matters. For additional safety purposes, it is advisable to put on safety boots. The boots will help you have a strong grip on the bow when you’re stepping on it.
Also, wear gloves, long sleeve clothes, and pants made out of strong materials. The glove will protect your palms from blisters and the overall gear will protect your body in case there’s an accident.
With these steps, precautions, and guidelines, stringing your bow without a stringer just got easier. Interestingly, the two methods don’t require any special skill or training. It only requires a great deal of patience and paying attention to details.
So, why don’t you try out these methods and feel the thrill that comes with fixing your bow yourself today?