Fact checked by Steven Lines, lifelong Hunter, and Outdoorsman
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One of the essential tools for any archer is their bow. When buying one, you want to make sure that you choose a high-quality one; it will last for a long time. But how long can you expect a recurve bow to last?
In most cases, a high-quality recurve bow will be able to last for a lifetime. However, you will have to make sure that you maintain and store it properly for this to happen.
As we’ve seen, to get the most value from your recurve bow, you’ll have to take care of it properly. Let’s look at some of the things you need to know to extend your bow’s lifespan.
In this post, we'll cover:
Finding A High-Quality Bow
When looking for a recurve bow, you should make sure that you are purchasing a high-quality model. By choosing a solid bow, you will be able to keep using it for a lifetime. In this area, there are a few crucial points to consider.
First, you should know how you intend to use the bow. This might impact how you screen for different criteria. As an example, there will be different criteria for target shooters than there will be for hunters.
You should also make sure that you are getting the right limbs. Typically, you should focus on the amount of pressure that you will be exerting. You should also make sure to find one that has the correct draw length. If you visit an archery store, they’ll be able to help you calculate this.
However, the most crucial consideration is the materials that make up your bow. You should be looking for something reliable. Generally, you will have the choice between three groups of elements.
- Wood
- Carbon
- Fiberglass
Most modern bows will be highly durable and able to last for a long time. However, it’s still worth investigating the bow thoroughly. Often, this can mean reading online reviews to find the best one for your needs.
Maintaining Recurve Bows
How well you care for your recurve bow can significantly impact how long it will last. By following a few simple tips, you’ll be able to make sure that it lasts for a lifetime.
Maintaining Recurve Bow Limbs
When you’re practicing or participating in competitions, you will often get dirt and debris onto the bow. Before you store it, you’ll have to make sure that you clean it. This will prevent mold and mildew from growing on the bow.
When you do this, you will need to remove the string. This will allow you to clean the bow thoroughly. When doing this, you might want to use a small amount of car polish. Place this onto a soft cloth. Then slowly move along the bow, removing the dirt.
If you want to, you can buff the bow to add an extra layer of shine; this will ensure that your bow stays in excellent working condition. It will also make it easier for you to remove the dirt. Generally, you might want to do this deep clean once every six months to keep your bow in good condition.
Storing Your Bow Properly
You should also make sure that you are storing your bow correctly. This is especially important if it will be a long time before you use the bow again.
In this case, you should make sure to lay your bow flat on the ground. If you lean it on an angle, you might risk bending one limb. This can lead to the bow becoming misaligned.
You should also make sure that you are thinking about the area where you will be storing your bow. It shouldn’t be placed into direct sunlight, as the heat could cause the limbs to bend out of shape. You should also try to avoid an area that has high humidity levels.
In some cases, you might want to store a bow in its case. This will allow additional support. It will also help protect it from unintended knocks and bumps. It will also help protect it from dust and debris, which can damage the bow. If you don’t have a case, you might want to use a bow sock.
Take Care Of The Bow Strings
You should also make sure that you are looking after your bowstrings. If they break while you’re using them, it has the potential to cause damage to your bow. You also have the potential to get a chance of injuring yourself.
To take care of the string, you should wax it thoroughly. This will help protect it from wear. It will also allow you to ensure that it’s been adequately hydrated.
Generally, you’ll need to replace the string every three years. If you spot it beginning to fray, it might be time to get a new string. Another potential warning sign is when the string starts to stretch.
Signs That You Need To Replace Your Bow
While your bow should be able to last for a lifetime, this isn’t always the case. In some cases, a bow might start to show signs that it needs to be repaired or replaced. You should pay attention to these signs, as using equipment that is in poor condition is one of the biggest reasons archery injuries occur.
Bent Or Broken Limbs
As we mentioned, your limbs can last for a long time. However, if you store them improperly, you might risk them getting bent or going out of alignment.
You shouldn’t use the bow without getting the limbs fixed first. At best, it will be inaccurate, and you won’t be able to hit the target. At worst, you might be placing yourself in a dangerous situation.
If the limbs get bent over time, you might want to take them into an archery store. They might be able to help you straighten out the limb, making it safe again.
If a new limb arrives broken or bent, you should send it back. Most companies will offer a warranty on defective products. This will make it easier for you to get the damage repaired.
Incorrect Draw Length
If you are starting or are growing, you might notice that your draw length has changed. If this is the case, you might have outgrown the bow.
If the draw length is too short, you might be placing too much strain on the limbs. This can cause damage to the bow.
To avoid this, you should make sure that you are getting the right draw length. Once you have the correct draw length, you can focus on improving your draw strength. This will make you a more effective archer.
To Summarize
Your bow is one of the essential parts of your archery kit. So, you should spend some time investigating all the options to find the right one for your needs.
Once you find the right bow, you should make sure to maintain it properly. As we saw, this process doesn’t need to take a long time. By spending a few extra minutes cleaning and storing it correctly, you will be able to make sure that the bow lasts for a lifetime.
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Steven Lines is a hunter and outdoorsman from Safford, Arizona, USA. Since he was a child, he has been hunting and fishing and has over 20 years of outdoor experience. 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.