How To Tune Your Bow
If you want to be a good bow archer, you must learn how to tune your bow. This will allow you to have more stability in releasing your arrows. As you become more experienced, you will also notice that your accuracy will increase as well. This comes down to the physics of the bow. Learn how to perfectly carry out bow tuning in this guide.
Check Strings and Cables
If you are preparing your bow for the season, the first thing to do is to have your bow-shop professional inspect the cables and strings. They stretch and wear out with time, resulting in rotational cams, shifts in nocking points, de-flexing limbs, and a dangerous shooting scenario.
The average lifespan of new strings is between three and four years. If you require an upgrade, you can order from the manufacturer or ask a professional to make a new one.
String Stop
The stopper on the string slows down and stops excessive vibration earlier. In this way, the bow will be less raucous and also prevents excessive string follow-through that can, in specific configurations, lead to excessive arm contact.
Therefore, move the stop in the string by a couple of millimeters to get a more dampening effect or take off to speed it up. Be cautious not to make too much contact, as it could cause premature wear on your string.
Twist and Press
Cables and strings that are more than a year or two old might not require replacement, but they’ve likely stretched enough to rotate the cams (or the cam) and create timing problems and even shift the nocking point as well as your peep sight.
So, when you start the tuning process twisting the strings to create tension is the initial step and then bringing it back to factory specifications.
Center Shot
Once the cables and strings are in place, you can align your nocking points precisely, and the arrow rests. This is known as finding out the shot’s center. This can be accomplished using the laser center-shot tool or a bow square.
Draw Length
Do not start turning the bow without first making adjustments to your draw’s length. If you are feeling anxious or anxious to shoot, then the draw length of your bow is likely too long. Most bowhunters draw with a size that isn’t long enough. A sure sign of improper draw length is when the draw-arm elbow isn’t aligned with the arrow during the full draw. Also, an arm that isn’t anchored solidly along the draw bone.
Test various draw settings until you discover the perfect setting. If you’re unsure, consult your local expert to ensure that the draw length you choose is accurate and that you are aware of the precise lengths of arrows you’ll shoot.
Peep Sight
Sometimes, the peep sight may remain unaligned to tune it is to place the bow into the bow press and press it barely enough to loosen the bowstring. Based on the location of the peep. Remove just one string on one of the sides of the peep’s front and move it to the opposite side. On the back of the peep, take one strand from the other side and put it on the other side. This will move the peep in the natural bowstring twists and then move the peep back into the correct place.
Take the bow off the press, examine the peep and repeat the process if needed. Sometimes, it’s just the strands in one, and sometimes it takes several pairs.
Fletching
In the past, arrows flitted with feathers, or long vanes with strong helical arrangement led to better arrow flight, mainly when using broadheads for compound shooters.
However, this has changed. Small and stiff Vanes, such as Blazers, can provide excellent guidance for arrows and are strong enough to stand up to repeated shots with rests designed to be captured, such as the Whisker Biscuit. They’ve become the norm for the majority of hunting bows.
Paper Bow Tuning
There are numerous arrow-tuning techniques to choose from, but tuning with paper is the most efficient and straightforward. To get started, make a 16×16-inch frame of pieces of cardboard or wood. Then, stretch a sheet of painter’s paper over the opening. Place it a few feet ahead of a target’s butt.
This will permit you to shoot an arrow into the paper that is taut from four to six feet while allowing the arrow to completely clear the paper and then strike the target’s butt. When tuning your paper, make sure you’re entirely at ease and are using a proper shooting technique. Make sure you grip the bow the same way every time you shoot and make sure the anchor point you choose to use is comfortable and stable. If you use sloppy shooting form, you’ll get inconsistent results.
Walk Back Bow Tuning
A piece of tape can be stretched horizontally across the middle of your target. You can then include a tiny dot to aim towards the top of the strip. Then, shoot that dot at 20 yards. Reverse to 25 yards. Place the same pin on the dot using the same pin and shoot a second arrow. Return to 30 yards, and repeat.
Repeat the process out to 45 or even 50 yards. Ideally, the shooting arrows should be aligned vertically even as they hit lower and lower and higher. If you observe a pattern of all arrows “walking” to one side or the other side of the tape, then a fractional rest adjustment may be recommended. It’s an adjustment you could like to have your professional do.
Sight Level
Put your bow into the vise, and then hold the torpedo level to the riser. Adjust to ensure that the bubble is at the center. If your bow’s square then your sight bubble should also be square. If your bow seems to be level and the bubble of the bow isn’t, then you need to break open the manual of your sight to adjust both the sight’s axis. Make sure you check it after dialing in your pins.
Sight in with Field Points
Make sure you’re in the correct spot at 10 yards. Then, begin your sight-in practice at 20 yards. Some shooters prefer five-arrow groups. Some prefer shooting three arrows since it removes some fatigue from the game. Make sure to dial in the perfect distance at 20 and then move back to 30 and finally 40. It is a good rule to only shoot at one point per shooting session to avoid fatigue. It’s not like you’re practicing at the moment so much as you’re making sure the bow is ready for shooting practice.
Sight-in with Broadheads
If you have a bow that is tuned and matched with the appropriate arrows, there shouldn’t be any distinction between the point of contact of your field points and your spin-tested and weighed broadheads. In general, broadheads with fixed blades, in particular, are less tolerant of shooting. Therefore, it’s essential to perform your sight-in for broadheads while you’re still fresh.
Testing Arrows
The Paper Tuning Arrow Test is the most widely tested bow test used for those who use compound bows that have release aids. This test is also helpful to release the fingers:
- Attach a piece of newspaper to the picture frame rack that is approximately 24-” X 24″ (60 60 cm x 60 cm).
- Place the paper’s center on the paper to be about shoulder height with the target mat approximately six feet from the paper to put an end to the arrows.
- Stand between 4 and 6 feet (7.8-1.5 meters) away from the paper.
- Make a fletched arrow go through the middle of the paper, using the arrow in shoulder height (parallel towards the floor).
- Examine how the paper has been broken
Arrows Front of Center
The arrow’s trajectory is the most stable when most of its mass falls on the front of the center. The majority of experts recommend a F.O.C. between 7 and 11 percent. This number is determined by first finding the arrow’s balance point and then measuring it in the nock groove. Then, subtract the center of the arch from the point of balance and divide it by the total length. Then, you multiply it by 100. It’s a bit complicated, but it’s worth it. If you’re not too heavy, you may want to consider an extra heavy point, like 100 grains instead of 100.
Arrows Spine
The spine is simply the arrow’s stiffness, and the lower the number, the more rigid the arrow. For instance, an arrow with a 400-spine has more flexibility than an arrow with a 340-spine. All bows flex when they come out of the bow before returning towards the intended target.
Bows that are slower-those have lighter draw weights or cams with more rounded edges, etc.-impart less flexing on the arrow and shoot better with a flexible spine. Bows that are faster require a stronger spine, or the arrow could be too relaxed. Many arrow manufacturers offer spine calculators on their sites.
Tools Used For Bow Tuning
Whether you are just beginning to learn how to shoot or an experienced archer, the correct tools for bow tuning will make all the difference in your results. There’s nothing worse than a bow that’s not tuned correctly, and regardless of how great your aim may be and how well you aim, you won’t be successful in hitting the target if your bow is not in tune or is not tuned correctly. It doesn’t what price you shell out for a bow; it won’t work when it’s not properly tuned. The significance to tune your bow can’t be overemphasized.
Allen Wrenches
Allen wrenches are crucial compounds in bow tuning tools for hunters and archers alike. Modern compound bows require you to use these wrenches to use on screws of all kinds. Because Allen wrenches aren’t expensive, they are an excellent investment to purchase one or two of them because they’re among the most often misplaced tools in the garage.
Arrow Glue
You’ll need to add components to your compound bow at times time. Instead of visiting a repair shop every time, it is best to buy the proper glue for your arrow. The glue allows the inserts to be installed without difficulty. The correct arrow glue could make an essential factor in inserts being pulled out or not coming off correctly.
Arrow Saw
An arrow saw can be expensive, but it’s an investment that is worth the cost. If you have an arrow jig that is fletching, you’ll need an arrow saw to cut your archers. Anyone who is an archer must own an arrow saw as it can be helpful not only when creating new arrows but also when repairing the ones that have been damaged.
Arrow Spin Tester
Your arrows must be performing well before you go out on the hunt. Arrows with even the tiniest imperfections could negatively affect the arrow’s flight, making it harder to strike your targets. Archers can make use of the arrow test to check the performance of the flight of arrows. It can help identify problems that range from wobbles to damaged broadheads. In reality, it could assist in narrowing down issues with a flight that originated from bows or arrows.
Bow Press
While some bow makers have adopted bows that do not require a bow press, it is a crucial tool necessary at home. Bow presses make it possible to complete any maintenance work you might need to do with your bow. With this tool, you can put it in its preferred position and then work with it quickly. It can also help set the proper string positions.
Bow Vise
Many archers overlook the importance of bow vises. That means that in working at their bows, they have to utilize one hand for holding the bow while the other is working on it. That is not an easy job! It is a good thing that purchasing the bow vise can help liberate your hands. You can put it on your bench for work and can be useful in performing various fixes, mounting sights, and attaching peeps. It is necessary to have a bow vise for almost any task you do on the bow.
D-Loop Knocking Pliers
D-loops are a more common norm for compound bows due to more significant benefits than traditional ropes. But, they do get worn out as you continue playing with your bow. In the end, you’ll need to replace them frequently, which is where the D-loop knocking pliers can help. These pliers make replacing tasks a breeze
Fletching Jig
Repairing or making arrows could aid in saving a significant amount of time and money. A fletching jig can be an easy tool to assist you in this. They are available in various sizes and prices. However, even the simplest of them can help you save money. When you purchase a high-quality fletching jig, you will not have to worry when your quiver runs empty.
Grain Scale
There will be a point during your bowhunting career when you need to create your own bows. A grain scale can make it possible. It allows you to measure the parts you need to create the perfect bow. Beyond measuring the particular components, grain scales will also allow you to determine the performance of the entire bow and archers.
Laser Alignment Tool
The process of setting up your compound bow may be somewhat tricky. That’s why hunters use a laser alignment device that is highly beneficial. It will make it simpler and quicker to put together an archery compound. It is possible to achieve an exact alignment for the limbs and the sights shot to the center and stabilizer center. The alignment tools and the buttons testers are the most powerful compound bow tuning tool with only one action.
Paper Tuner
Another of the most critical bow tuning instruments that hunters must be equipped with is a Paper tuner. It is crucial for getting things in order. It aids in controlling the speed at which arrows fly out of your bow and helps you hit your desired target. While you can purchase this device from a retailer but making it at home isn’t difficult.
String Serving Tools
In addition to those D-shaped loops, the serving area will also become worn after using your bow for some time. This tool makes serving your string simple and is usually included in kits that include a spreader for cables, a servicing tool, wax, and a string separator. If you have these tools, you won’t have to fret about changing your bowstrings
Conclusion
Bow tuning doesn’t need to be a significant chore. Follow the steps laid out in this article, keep a calm, systematic approach, and you’ll be getting the perfect arrows within a matter of minutes. You’ll be stacking your arrows and feel much more secure and ready to tackle any shooting challenges you face.
