Let the Grey Geese Fly: Stringing Your Longbow

By Brian Caton

Here are some tips and things to remember when stringing your longbow. There are numerous ways to string your bow and here are just three.

The Bastard String Method

The Bastard String is a secondary string that is as long as the stave and has either a loop or leather pockets at each end. Do not use this method if your bow has horn knocks! To use, first slide both ends of the bow string onto the stave and set the end on the lower limb in the string knock.
Attach one loop of the Bastard String to the upper nock of the upper limb. Then attach the other loop of the Bastard String to the lower limb below the bow string.
With the bow held horizontal by one hand on the handle, with the back of the bow facing up, place one foot on the Bastard String, directly underneath the bow handle. For safety reasons, and for a better view, turn your face to the side of the upper limb. Next, pull up on the bow handle and slide the bow string on the upper limb into the nock with your other hand. This will take a little strength but your bow string should be strung. Keep your face turned as much as possible during this operation. If done right you’ll now be able to remove the Bastard String.

The Step-through Method

This method requires the most upper body strength and coordination. Start by first sliding both ends of the bow string onto the stave and set the end on the lower limb in the string knock.
Next, step through the bow with your right foot (if you’re right handed) with the lower limb belly of the stave resting against the back of your right calf. The lower limb tip should be resting against your left shin. The string should now be in front of your right shin.
Grasping the upper limb with your right hand, pull towards your front, flexing the stave. Slide the upper end of the bow string into its upper limb knock with your left hand. Now take a breath.

The Push Down Method

This Method might be the simplest. Start by first sliding both ends of the bow string onto the stave and set the end on the lower limb in the string knock.
Next hold the stave with your right hand (if you’re right handed) with the back side facing up towards you and set the lower limb tip into the arch of your right foot. Grasp the upper limb and string with your left hand and, while pushing down on the limb, slide the string up towards the upper tip. You’ll also need to pull upwards with your right hand as you go. This flexes the stave enough for you to string the bow.

Tuning the Bow

If the string is properly twisted and strung it should align down the center of the stave. You should also be able to place your fist with thumb fully extended onto the face of the handle and just touch the string with your thumb. If not, unstring the bow at the upper limb and twist or untwist the string till it reaches the desired tension. Remember, the tighter the twist, the more flex in the stave and distance from the bow face.

Also Remember…

When strung a traditional bow is considered 80% broken so never pull a wooden bow beyond its stated draw length, which should be written on the belly of the bow below the handle. For example, 20# @ 24” would indicate that the bow pulls 20 pounds at 24 inches, measured from the back of the bow. (The side opposite the pound/draw numbers is the back of the bow). A good anchor point to go to is the side of the mouth when drawing the bow. Place the first knuckle of your thumb of your drawing hand just after the side of your mouth. If the bow is over-drawn, it may break. In other words, DO NOT pull the string back beyond the written inches...EVER! This is why it is important to have the bow properly fit to you PRIOR to purchase. And do not let anyone else draw your bow who has not been fitted to it.

Wooden bows are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. After stringing a bow, it is a good idea to pull it a few times half way, before pulling to full draw, especially if the bow is subject to a drastic change in temperature.

You should always use a wooden feathered arrow which is at least as long as the stated draw length of the bow. On most wooden bows, the first knuckle of your left hand (if right handed) is the arrow rest. It is a good idea to frequently check your arrows for cracks or loose feathers to avoid injury to your hand. When shooting off the hand, a glove is recommended to reduce the effects of shooting a bow without an arrow shelf.