Bowhunting is a close-range affair that requires absolute stealth at every point during the hunt, especially during the moment of truth. As even the most modern compound bows are shot, a certain noise level is emitted due to kinetic energy-induced vibration.
For this reason, archers strive to minimize the intensity of these vibrations by using an array of dampening devices. This leads many archers to seek out the best bowstring stop for their bow.
Easy to Setup – Quality Product – Quiet
In my opinion the best one is the Saunders VUDU String Dampener. But make sure to check out other wonderful market offerings on this list as well.
At a Glance: The Best Bowstring Stops
Industry Leading Bowstring Stops
While it is true that there is a wide array of bowstring stops available on today’s market, not all are able to achieve the same level of sound dampening as one might hope (read.. recommended bowstring silencers)
Saunders VUDU String Dampener
Saunders appears to have perfected the art of post-shot string vibration dampening with their VUDU String Dampener.
This bowstring stop drastically cuts perceivable noise at the shot to an absolute minimum. This is due to the stop’s ability to not only stop the string’s movement but to capture it within its rubber receptacle.
Specs:
- Weight: 4 ounces
Pros:
- Full mount dampener system as opposed to only a fitted rubber stopper
- Instant string capture technology for unsurpassed vibration dampening
- Universal fit for bows utilizing ⅜” diameter cable rods
Cons:
- Rubber receptacle has been known to wear out and require replacement
Another noteworthy feature of this stop is that it fits universally to any bow that utilizes a ⅜” diameter cable rod.
MILAEM String Stop Bracket
The MILAEM String Stop Bracket is a wonderful option for those who wish for their bow to fire in relative silence (read.. good recurve bow bowstrings).
This is another full bracket dampening system that attaches as a mounted component, rather than just a slip-on option.
Specs:
- Weight: 5.9 ounces
Pros:
- Full mount dampener system as opposed to only a fitted rubber stopper
- Instant string capture technology for unsurpassed vibration dampening
- Universal fit for bows utilizing ⅜” diameter cable rods
Cons:
- Solid-state mounting requires an expenditure of time for installation
With its durable rubber-tipped string dampener and lightweight alloy-based construction, the MILAEM String Stop Bracket is sure to quiet your bow to a level that you had not previously thought possible.
Bossman Outdoors 4-Dot String Stopper
The Bossman Outdoors 4-Dot String Stopper is the perfect addition to the bow of an archer looking to cut noise and vibration without going through the trouble of full unit installation.
This stopper is an upgraded unit to use in place of a worn, outdated, or underperforming stock string stop.
Specs:
- Weight: 0.3 ounces
Pros:
- 4-Dot system for perfect string alignment
- Universal fit for all ⅜” diameter cable rods
- Easy mount design for simplified replacement of stock string stops
Cons:
- Does not include hardware for mounting in absence of pre-existing string stop
The 4-dot alignment system ensures that your bowstring is centered upon the release of every arrow.
LimbSaver String Decelerator Node
LimbSaver is a name that is synonymous with vibration dampening, and has been producing quality archery products of that nature for a lengthy period of time.
True to the company’s rich tradition, the LimbSaver String Decelerator Node is a winning choice for those looking for silent bow performance.
Specs:
- Weight: 0.3 ounces
Pros:
- Progressive resistance technology ensures ample vibration dampening upon every shot
- Universal fit for usage on nearly any bow
- Proprietary NOVCOM construction ensures years of trouble-free, unmatched performance
Cons:
- Does not include any hardware for complete cable rod replacement
This unit slides onto a bow’s existing cable rod. It substantially reduces noise and vibration at the shot, using its progressive resistance pillar technology.
Bowjax Macdaddy Stopper
The Bowjax Macdaddy Stopper is built with extreme durability in mind. This stop is constructed from a dual-stage polymer that allows it to take years of punishment without the slightest sign of fatigue.
This dual-stage system consists of a soft polymer outer layer that is bonded to a stiffer polymer core.
Specs:
- Weight: 1.6 ounces
Pros:
- Multi-layer polymer construction for enhanced durability
- Universal fit ensures that all brands of bows in all price ranges can make use of this stop
- The fitted design makes installation a breeze
Cons:
- Only intended for use with bows that already feature pre-existing string stops
The Bowjax string stop fits all ⅜” diameter cable rods, and is a direct replacement for stock factory string stops.
What Makes A Quality Bowstring Stop?
When selecting a bowstring stop, there are a number of factors that warrant consideration.
So what exactly should you be looking for when selecting the best bowstring stop?
A Stop That Stands The Test Of Time
There are few things in life more aggravating than being pleased with a new gear purchase, only to watch this product fall apart after only a limited number of uses.
Circumstances of this nature lead to wasted time and money, leaving a consumer on edge.
A string stop will inevitably be subject to a significant amount of wear and tear as it is repeatedly pounded by the force of a released bowstring. For this reason, a string stop that is not hearty enough to withstand this beating will fail in short order.
This is just one of the reasons we love the Bowjax Macdaddy Stopper. This string stop’s dual polymer-bonded construction offers unsurpassed durability, without a loss of functionality in regards to string dampening.
This product is designed for trouble-free usage after it is installed in place.
A Stop That Pushes The Boundary Of Advancement
There have been a number of technological advancements to compound bows across the market in recent years.
So why shouldn’t your string stop show this level of advancement as well?
As time passes, new developments are made regarding vibration dampening, and a top-quality bowstring stop will almost certainly reflect this within its design.
This is a concept that the design team at Saunders knows all too well. The Saunders VUDU String Dampener features some of the newest advancements in bow vibration reduction, one of which is its rubber string catch receptacle.
As an archer releases his or her arrow, their string contacts the rubber stop, which features a v-cut notch. This notch catches the bowstring and holds it in place, essentially eliminating post-shot noise.
A String Stop With A Track Record
There are a number of new companies that emerge onto the archery scene every year. Some will stand the test of time. Others will fade into obscurity in relatively short order.
With the sheer number of archery gear manufacturers that hold a spot in today’s market, you must consistently turn out quality products in order to remain in business.
For this reason, the quality of the product that an archery company produces can often be gauged by the period of time in which they have been in business. This is true for string stops and for quality arrows for compound bows too.
If a string stop from a well-renowned manufacturer is what you are in search of, look no further than the LimbSaver String Decelerator Node.
LimbSaver has been the standard for vibration dampening products in the archery world for several decades. With each successive product they release, their fanfare continues to grow.
The purchase of a LimbSaver product is the Purchase of archery gear craftsmanship at its finest.
Which Bowstringstop Is The Best?
When comparing bowstring stops within this list, I feel without a doubt that the Saunders VUDU String Dampener is the best bowstring stop, with the MILAEM String Stop Bracket coming in as a not so distant runner up.
The Saunders VUDU String Dampener features the latest in string dampening technology with captive string system, showcases next level durability with its all-in-one rigid mount design, and can be easily mounted to almost any bow.
