B55 string count

[Fox]

I read somewhere 1 strand = 5 pounds of draw weight so 10 strands for 50# bow. This seems like a low number of strands to me. what do you all use? talking flemish twist B55.

[bownarra]

B-55 breaks around 35 - 40# per strand.
A general rule for string strength is 4 x bow strength.
50# x 4 = 200# required string strength.
200/35 = 5.7.
So 6 strands would be safe - however a 6 strand string is mighty thin!
I normally use 14 strands of B55 then add 4 strands into the flemish loop and 4 strands into the reverse twisted section for the bowyers knot. Of course this gives an overly strong string but you got to use what you've got!
Dyneema based strings tend to break around 70# per strand....
I use even less dyneema and bulk up the ends more.

[Pat B]

I use 14 strands for 45# to 65# and 12 strands under 45#.

[bassman211]

I have tied 8, and 10 strand B55 strings for self bows, and glass bows up to, and including 55lb pull with no problems afterwards. I never  tie any more than 10 strands of any type of string material that I use for bow strings, but that is just my choice. Use what you feel safe with.

[Fox]

Thanks guys. Maybe ill stick with my normal 12-14 strand strings as this is so thin it doesn't feel the nicest... what kind of speed benefits would you expect for thinner strings? I might just put a thicker serving on too if the speed benefits are worth it..

[Pat B]

Probably only a few fps. The heavier string will be quieter too...and safer. I've been making my strings this way for almost 40 years and never had a string break. B50 before B55.

[bassman211]

Depends on what you call speed benefit. I have gained up to 5 to 6 fps on 35 to 45 lb bows. I don't use all ff strings on my self bows, but my hunting bows all had 8 to 10 strand ff strings on them. To me the added speed was worth it, but that will be your call.