adjustable Bow string.

[James Rodney]

this may sound stupid, and may be a waste of b-50 dacron.. but i was wondering if there was a way to make an adjustable string that i can use for tillering?   i know how to make a continuous loop string, but not adjustable.  i've googled and got a few results, but i don't have the equipment needed to make it.   

this is the string that i've been making.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Bmmv9aSuPc  i'm practically using the same thing he's using to make strings.   2x4 with nails in holes that were drilled out. 

[bowandarrow473]

Just make one end a permanent loop and the other a braided line and tie a bowyers knot on the braided side, and voila, an adjustable bowstring!

[PatM]

 Timber hitch.

[bowandarrow473]

There are also several videos on YouTube about making an adjustable bowstring, it works very well for tillering, and is relatively simple and easy to make!

[Drewster]

Yep, build yourself a tillering string with a braided loop on one end that's about 74" long.  A bowyers knot on the other end will give you all the adjustment you need.

I build Flemish twist strings for all my bow strings.  They have a lot more adjustment than a continuous loop string and I just like the softer feel and look of them a LOT better.......more traditional too.  You can make a string jig quite easily.  Google "Flemish twist string jigs" and you'll fine several.  They do not have to be fancy but I built a walnut one with brass pins that's nice to use.  A pine board and nails will do.

[DC]

I use this removable chain link. No sharp edges. Doesn't work any better than a timber hitch

[bowandarrow473]

You don't actually even need a jig (though it makes life easier) you can rough it with two nails hammered into a fence or other long object, measure the distance you will need and start spooling out some line

[bushboy]

Think it was del that posted something like that a while back?

[Del the cat]

Yup, just a fancy version of that link.
My original one was like a "8" you could thread the string round through the two holes to shorten it. I gave it away at the Classic. My latest is just a ring turned from some aluminium bar, but I also use an old ball race.
I have a couple of long strings, one V long for warbows and a shorter one. They have BIG loops so can go onto roughed out staves.
There's a pic of it here:-
http://bowyersdiary.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/yew-primitive-braced.html
The big advantage over a timber hitch is it won't slip, it's easy to remove and easy to adjust. One turn through adjusts the string about 1/2" any smaller amount can be done by twisting.
Del

[DC]

I stole the idea from Del

[Del the cat]

I stole the idea from Del

That's fine, my lawyers will be onto it... soon as they've finished with VW
Del

[DC]

But I meant it as flattery, honest

[Marc St Louis]

Yep, build yourself a tillering string with a braided loop on one end that's about 74" long.  A bowyers knot on the other end will give you all the adjustment you need.

I build Flemish twist strings for all my bow strings.  They have a lot more adjustment than a continuous loop string and I just like the softer feel and look of them a LOT better.......more traditional too.  You can make a string jig quite easily.  Google "Flemish twist string jigs" and you'll fine several.  They do not have to be fancy but I built a walnut one with brass pins that's nice to use.  A pine board and nails will do.

Endless loop strings have been used for hundreds of years