CHOOSING THE CORRECT CROSSBOW STRING MATERIAL

When you need to repair your bow, it’s important to use the best crossbow string material for the job. As a custom bow string manufacturer and distributor for bow string material, we are always getting asked what is the best material for a crossbow string. There are several factors that come into play when selecting the proper materials, from the type of crossbow you own to your experience in maintaining them. While there are exceptions and oddballs to some of the rules, 60X Custom Strings provides you with a basic guide that can aid in choosing the best string material to get the job done right. 

Crossbow String Materials Based on Style

The major factor that contributes to determining the best crossbow string material is the style of the crossbow you’re using. This can be narrowed down to three basic designs: teardrop, recurve, and compound. Since each of these has different characteristics, the crossbow string needs to be tailored to work best for each application.

Recurve Crossbow Strings

The first design is the recurve crossbow. This design requires the crossbow string to attach directly to the limbs of the crossbow. Since the string attaches to the limb, the end loops of the crossbow string need to be larger. The most important thing to account for when you’re trying to find the best crossbow string material for this is knowing what the limbs are made from. 

On wooden limbs (non-reinforced), you need to be certain that your recurve crossbow strings are made from dacron material. The dacron material has more give and absorbs the energy generated from the crossbow. If using newer “fast flight” or “dyneema” crossbow string materials, the bow can be damaged due to the added strength of the material. Conversely, if your crossbow limbs have reinforced tips, then you are safe to use newer materials such as D97. Using such materials will allow for maximum performance and stability from your recurve crossbow strings.

Teardrop Crossbow Strings

The next design is known as a teardrop. This style is somewhat similar to recurve crossbows and compound crossbows, but it will have steel cables that wrap around and an anchor known as a teardrop. Teardrop crossbow strings will usually have midsized loops and be fairly short in length. On a teardrop crossbow, you want to use a dacron bow string material for your crossbow string. Just like on the recurve crossbow, the steel cables do not absorb the shock, and bow damage can result if using the incorrect material for the crossbow string.

Compound Crossbow Strings

Lastly is the compound crossbow. With this style, the crossbow string will attach directly to the cam. There will be two styles of these as well. One will have steel cables and the other will have synthetic cables made from the same material as the crossbow string. If the crossbow has steel cables, then the crossbow string needs to be made from dacron, just like recurve crossbow strings. If the cables are synthetic, the best crossbow string material to use would be a dyneema material, such as D97 for your crossbow string.

Remember that some brands or models of crossbows do vary from these general guidelines. If you are ever in doubt, it’s always best to contact the crossbow manufacturer for their recommendation.

Find Your Ideal Crossbow Strings

60X Custom Strings is here to help you with all of your archery needs. Whether you’re trying to find the best recurve crossbow strings, teardrop crossbow strings, or compound crossbow strings, we have what you need. Explore all we have to offer and check out our blog or join our newsletter for more helpful articles.