String repair vs. new?

[roadglider]

The string I have for my 40 yr. old Blackhawk recurve looks ok to me but I'm just not sure. Been watching some videos on making strings and I'd love to try it. Just want to know if it's possible to refurbish an old string, plus it would give me the correct length to make a new one. What do you guys think?

[Bevan R.]

I NEVER trust an old string. I would strongly suggest learning to make a flemish twist string and keep good thread on your bow(s).

[gstoneberg]

How old is the string?  I have strings that are 3 or 4 years old which I still trust but they were well taken care of.  I definitely agree that if there's a chance the string could fail from age I'd replace it.  I agree that you should learn to make a flemish string as they are easy to make.  I do not make strings based on the length of the old string, but rather based on the nock to nock length of the bow.  You could measure the old string and add 3 or 4 inches as a starting point.  The jig I have to help me make the string is calibrated in bow length nock-to-nock.

George

[JustinNC]

Strings are wayyyy to cheap and waaay too easy to make to trust a sub par string. If you want to do it justice, get material from that era and build a new one.

[mullet]

 Use B-50 with an older recurve. Fastflight tends to destroy them.

[Cameroo]

If you're not sure how to make a string, I posted a link to a good youtube video a while ago, it's called "How to make a flemish twist string" in the Howto section of the forum.  It's one of the best videos I've seen, you might want to check it out.  If you buy a couple rolls of b-50, you'll have enough for a lifetime.

[straightarrow]

I sent you a PM...sorry I haven't got back to you. I can fix you up with a new string.

Jon

[roadglider]

Cam, thanks, I watched those videos, very enlightening, and no I really don't trust that old string. Thanks for tip on B-50.

[Buckeye Guy]

If a string is frayed throw it out .
I seem to be the odd one here but if it still looks good keep using it.
I have strings I made in the mid 70s that are still doing a good job!!

[JW_Halverson]

By all means, keep using that bowstring, but only when other people are around.  Nothing funnier than watching someone else's bow blow up when the string fails!  Remember to post pictures of your visit to the E.R.!