How to Adjust a Compound Bow: 12 Steps
A compound bow is a modern archery weapon that uses cams and pulleys to generate a mechanical advantage, which makes it easier to draw and release the string. Adjusting a compound bow is essential for ensuring accurate shots and peak performance. Follow these 12 simple steps.
1. Read the manufacturer’s manual: Understand your bow and its adjustable components based on the information provided in your compound bow’s manual.
2. Check the draw length: The draw length is the distance between the nock point (where the arrow is clipped onto the string) and the grip when at full draw. To find your ideal draw length, measure from your sternum to your dominant hand fingertips with arms spread wide, then divide by 2.5.
3. Adjust draw length: Loosen the bolts securing the cam modules to adjust the cams’ rotation settings, thus changing the draw length. Be sure to make adjustments for both top and bottom cams as required.
4. Check draw weight: Draw weight refers to how much force is required to pull back the bowstring fully. This can be measured using a bow scale; heavier draw weights result in faster arrow speeds.
5. Adjust draw weight: This is done by tightening or loosening limb bolts, which attach limbs to risers. Turning clockwise increases weight while counter-clockwise reduces it.
6. Paper tuning test: This test helps determine if your arrows are flying straight through paper, thereby indicating proper alignment of your bow with accurate shots. Set up a paper screen and shoot arrows through it from short distances, adjusting your rest or nock point until you see consistent, vertical tears.
7. Adjust peep sight height: Proper peep sight height enables you to see through both your peep sight (on bowstring) and pin sight (on riser). Consider installing a movable peep sight to make this adjustment easy.
8. Adjust pin sight: Move your pin sight (located on the riser) up or down, and left or right, based on where your arrows are hitting relative to the target.
9. Adjust bowstring silencers: Bowstring silencers are small accessories that reduce noise and vibration generated when shooting. Place them near to the nock point for maximum efficiency.
10. Adjust arrow rest: The arrow rest is what supports the arrow during shooting. Fine-tune its position horizontally and vertically for perfect arrow alignment when fully drawn.
11. Find ideal brace height: Brace height, measured from the grip to the bowstring when relaxed, can affect bow performance and accuracy. Consult your manual for the recommended range, adjusting by twisting or untwisting your bowstring.
12. Record settings: Note down all adjustments made to your compound bow to replicate your setup in case of future alterations or replacements.
And there you have it! By following these 12 simple steps, you can adjust your compound bow for optimum performance and accuracy on the range or in the field. Happy shooting!