Fact checked by Steven Lines, lifelong Hunter and Outdoorsman
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Waxing your bowstring is an integral part of its maintenance, and people often wonder if they can use products they have around the house, such as candle wax. You wax your bowstring to make sure that the string fibers do not dry out while at the same time protecting them from moisture seeping in. Bowstring wax is formulated specifically for this purpose.
Although there are people who use candle wax on their bowstrings, you should only do it in an emergency. Candle wax is hard, making it difficult to cover the string and protect all of the fibers completely. You can use candle wax for your bowstring, but it is better to use bowstring wax that is made to protect your bowstring.
This article will look at candle wax, how to use it, and why you need to wax your bowstrings. Continue reading to learn more about it.
In this post, we'll cover:
Should I Use Candle Wax for My Bowstring?
Waxing your bowstring is one of the most important parts of caring for your bow. It helps to extend your string’s useful life, and it makes sure that the string is always supple and prepared to draw and fire your arrows.
When you use bowstring wax, you will work it into the fibers of the string. This helps to keep the string supple and, at the same time, protects it from letting moisture in. The wax needs to be firm, but it should also be soft enough to massage into the string.
Also, you will always remove the wax before you apply wax the next time. You need to use a product that has some tackiness but is still easy to remove.
For these reasons, candle wax is more difficult to use. It is harder than bowstring wax, and you would need to combine it with another household product. Because it is so hard, it isn’t easy to cover the entire string and work it into the fibers. As a result, your string won’t get the protection that you are looking for. It is also difficult to remove the candle wax the next time you wax your string.
Although you can use candle wax, and some archers do, it is better to use bowstring wax that is made specifically for this job. This is the best way to ensure that your string is getting the protection it needs.
What Can I Use for Bowstring Wax?
Your bowstring is the most crucial part of your bow. Keeping it protected and supple is the key to making sure that you get the most out of your bow when you are out hunting. Waxing your string is very important to this process.
Technology has allowed for advancements in creating an ideal product for keeping your string fibers supple while protecting the string from moisture. If you take care of your bowstring and wax it regularly, it can last for years.
Most bowstring wax products are synthetic and made for this job. They have a touch of silicone to add a protective layer, and they are easy to put on and wipe off of your string. They are designed to ensure that waxing your string is easy and effective.
Some archers like to use beeswax as an alternative, and you can use it. You will want to melt it and combine it with olive oil to soften it so that you can work it into the fibers of the string. Although you can use this method, it is very easy to buy bowstring wax designed to protect your string, and it is affordable.
How Do You Wax a Bowstring?
When you prepare to wax your bowstring, you should begin by inspecting it to ensure it is in good condition. If you see any fraying or broken fibers, you will need to replace the string. Once you are certain that your string is in good condition, you should clean it and remove any wax on the surface.
You will wax your bowstring after using it as well as when it is stored. It is important to make sure that you wax it once a month when it is not used to prevent the fibers from drying out. When you are using it regularly, you can increase the frequency to at least once a week.
You can apply the string wax along the string, going up and down until you can see the wax. You should avoid waxing the serving because it will unravel more quickly. Once you have the wax on the string, you can put it between your thumb and your forefinger and gently massage the wax into the string. Make sure that you rub the wax into all of the nooks and crannies of the fibers to coat it and allow it to penetrate the string thoroughly.
Once this is done, you can take the fabric loop and place it around the string. Then slide it down the string to remove any excess wax. If you see any remaining clumps of wax, remove them with your finger. Now, your string is waxed and ready to go.
Can I Use Vaseline as Bowstring Wax?
Another standard household product is vaseline, and people think of it as a lube. They wonder if they can use it or chapstick to wax their strings. Although some archers use these products, they are not good for your string. If you are out hunting in the rain and have nothing else, you can use it to prevent water from soaking the string, but you should not use it under normal circumstances because other products are much better for your string.
Bowstring wax is formulated to prevent the fibers in the string from drying out and prevent moisture from getting inside the string. Vaseline is tackier than bowstring wax, and it can hold dirt and bring it into the fibers. It is much more challenging to clean it after you use it.
It is important to remember that vaseline and chapstick or not wax-based products; they are made of petroleum, which is a different product. Although some people use them, your string will last longer if you use bowstring wax.
Final Words
In the old days, archers used candle wax and other wax products to wax their bowstrings. However, there is string wax available today that is made specifically for bowstrings. Although you can still use candle wax, it is more difficult to use, and it doesn’t do the same job.
Bowstring wax is formulated to ensure that the fibers of your bowstring stay supple and protected from moisture. The performance of your bowstring determines how your bow works. There are many affordable bowstring wax products available, and it is ideal to use these products to wax your bowstring. If you keep your string waxed adequately, it will last longer and work better when you use it.
Steven Lines is a hunter and outdoorsman from Safford, Arizona, USA. He has been hunting and fishing since a child and has over 20 years of experience in the outdoors. Steven works as a hunting guide in Arizona during his spare time and runs a Youtube channel dedicated to sharing his outdoor adventures with others.