Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Jacob Parnell on November 23, 2013, 01:35:28 pm

Title: Bow Serving?
Post by: Jacob Parnell on November 23, 2013, 01:35:28 pm

Hi!

So I made my first bow a while back and I was wondering, do I need serving on the bowstring? I can't find any anywhere and I have been shooting without one for a bit.  Is there a primitive (or non-primitive) way I could make one without using actual serving?

Thanks!
            Jacob

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: JackCrafty on November 23, 2013, 01:51:42 pm

Serving is nice but, technically, you don't need it with "flemish twist" type strings.  If your string is made from a bunch of straight strands or threads, and not twisted or made from twisted strands, then yes a serving is best.

Braided fishing line works well and you can usually get it from a local tackle shop.  Don't get the mono-filament type fishing line.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: Jacob Parnell on November 23, 2013, 03:30:55 pm

Thank you! luckily, the bowstring I have now is a flemish. 

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: Danzn Bar on November 23, 2013, 03:37:14 pm

I've used 25# clear fishing mono before in a pinch and it worked pretty well................
DBar

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: bubbles on November 23, 2013, 05:38:47 pm

I use the same linen thread I use for the bow string.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: Badly Bent on November 23, 2013, 06:32:11 pm

Helps cut down on string abrasion from shooting glove or arm guards so its a good idea to use something I think.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: dbb on November 23, 2013, 07:46:34 pm

Beside greatly increase the life of the string it also makes for better accuracy as the arrow slips from the string more consistantly

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: ssgtchad on November 23, 2013, 09:20:57 pm

I use spiderwire fishing line....the braided stuff.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: steve b. on November 23, 2013, 09:30:27 pm

I've tried to go without but the string will fray, flemish or not.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: osage outlaw on November 23, 2013, 10:41:58 pm

I have used heavy duty outdoor thread before when I was out of serving material.  It worked just fine but was a little thinner than normal serving string.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: paoliguy on November 26, 2013, 01:43:04 pm

2x on the Spiderwire, I have been using it of late and so far no issues.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: sleek on November 26, 2013, 01:45:45 pm

I use the zebco version of spider wire for about 1/3 the cost. Actually, I make the entire string out of it. Works perfectly.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: bow101 on November 26, 2013, 03:56:31 pm

 I use black thread and smear some super glue on it to make it last..

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: paoliguy on November 26, 2013, 05:22:14 pm

sleek,

Are you making flemish twist strings or endless loop with the Zebco braid? I have been wary of it because I thought it might be too slick?

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: sleek on November 27, 2013, 03:27:33 pm

I make a reverse twist string with a slip knot at one end and the other, I take the loose ends and braid them into the reverse twisted strands of string. Then I feed the string into the loop that just made to make it a slip knot also.the braid into the string needs to be about 6 inches long otherwise it will start to slip. Start to finish I can make a string in about 10 min like this.

Title: Re: Bow Serving?
Post by: dbb on November 27, 2013, 04:53:48 pm

Quote from: bow101 on November 26, 2013, 03:56:31 pm

I use black thread and smear some super glue on it to make it last..

Be careful with superglue on strings!
Two reasons,first some materials fuse with with a lot of heat...A LOT.
secondly you can break the string like a twig if that happens...Dont ask how i know!   :-[