Fact checked by Steven Lines, lifelong Hunter and Outdoorsman
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When people use a compound bow for hunting, they often want to find a way to make it quieter. The compound bow is efficient, but it only gives the hunter one shot to hit the target because the noise is likely to frighten it away if they miss. Some people recommend using a string stop to help dampen the noise.
A string stop is a rubber device that reduces the strings’ vibrations after the hunter releases the bow. Without a dampening device, the compound bow can make a lot of noise, frightening the target if the hunter doesn’t make the shot. Many people choose to use a string stop to reduce the noise and gain a better chance at catching the game.
This article will examine whether or not you need a string stop on your compound bow, as well as what it is and other factors that impact the string on your bow. Continue reading to learn more.
In this post, we'll cover:
Do I Need a String Stop on My Bow?
While there are advantages to having a string stop on your compound bow, it is not a necessary piece of equipment. Compound bows have been on the market since the 1970s, and string stops are fairly new, so people have used these bows without a string stopper for many years.
However, there are advantages to using a string stopper. When you shoot a compound bow, you release the string. This unleashes the stored energy so that the arrow can fly through the air and hit your target. The energy that doesn’t go with the arrow causes the strings to vibrate, which is what causes the sound.
Many hunters want to deaden this sound because it can scare away game. There are several ways to do this, and string stoppers are very popular. You place the rubber on the strings, and it absorbs the vibration, thereby reducing the sound.
You need to be aware that it will also slow your arrow’s speed, but only by one or two feet per second, which is not very much. This is a popular way of reducing the sound and the length of the sound when people use compound bows.
What Is a String Stop on a Compound Bow?
A string stop is a piece of rubber fitted onto the strings to reduce the vibrations from your shot. When you draw the arrow, potential energy is stored at the peak of the draw. When you release it, most of the kinetic energy goes with the arrow towards your target, but some stays behind and causes the strings to vibrate. This is what causes the noise that you hear.
Hunters often use a string stop to reduce and deaden the sound. This is important because if a hunter misses or other targets in the area, they can hear the noise and run away. Making the process as quiet as possible is the best way to get another chance to get a shot off.
Can You Leave a Compound Bow Strung?
Although some bows need to be unstrung after use, you can normally leave your compound bow strung until you need to replace the strings. The important thing is to make sure that you take care of the string to stay in good shape.
Your bow strings need to be well cared for to always perform in the best form possible. It would help if you waxed the strings once a month when you aren’t using your bow. When you are using it, you should increase the frequency to once a week. You need to pay attention to the weather as well because the rain and other elements will compromise your bow’s ability to function well. Ensure that you clean and dry your strings after each exposure to bad weather, and make sure that they are waxed to protect them from moisture.
When you plan to use your bow, you should closely examine the strings and cables. You will look for any signs of wear or fraying, and you should replace them before you use your bow if you notice anything at all. Not only can it reduce the effectiveness of your bow, but it can be dangerous and harm your bow if you use it when the strings need to be replaced.
How Long Will a Compound Bow String Last?
People often wonder how long their bowstrings will last. The answer depends on how frequently you use your bow and how well you take care of it. If your strings are not waxed and cleaned regularly, they will not last as long.
One advantage of using a string stop is that it will extend the life of your bowstrings. There are less wear and strain on the strings by reducing the vibration and oscillation of the strings. Another factor that can impact how long your strings last is where you store the bow. If it is stored in a room with a consistent temperature, it will last longer. If you subject your bow to extreme hot and cold temperatures, the string will wear out more quickly.
Generally speaking, if you take good care of your compound bow, your strings should last around three years. However, you must take care of them and keep them clean and waxed.
How to Make Your Bow Quieter
There are several different ways to make your compound bow quieter. The string stop is one of the simplest solutions, but you can try a few other methods. As part of the process of caring for your bow, you should routinely inspect the screws and other bolts that hold your bow together. If any of them are loose or missing, your bow will make more noise. It is fairly simple to tighten the screws or replace them if they need it.
You can also check your limbs, and they make limb dampeners if your limbs are too noisy. They help reduce the vibration from the strings to the risers, which reduces the sound. Most of the time, you will find that the bow’s noise comes from something being loose if it is not from the vibrations of the strings. There are many aftermarket additions, such as sights, rests, quivers, and more, and if you are using any of these, make sure that the connection is tight.
Final Words
While having a string stop on your compound bow is not a requirement, it will make your bow quieter when you are out hunting. There are advantages to doing this, such as helping to ensure that your game isn’t frightened off by the sound of your bow.
Your strings are one of the most important parts of your bow, and you need to take care of them. The string stop helps reduce noise, but you need to remember to wax and clean your strings regularly to always be in the best condition. You don’t need to have a string stop, but many people find that it makes hunting more enjoyable.
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.