Are you a beginner archer looking for the perfect fit for your compound bow? Look no further because we will guide you through the essential steps in this article to ensure a precise and comfortable setup.
But first, let me start by saying that if you are a complete newbie, it is strongly advised against attempting to set up your compound bow by yourself.
It is crucial to consult an expert for assistance. Visit your local archery shop, where knowledgeable professionals can provide valuable guidance.
Now, let’s assume you already know what you´re doing. To start, gather all the necessary equipment. These components are crucial for proper fitting.
Let’s get started!
Contents (Jump to Topic)
Things That You Need
If you’re looking to achieve the perfect fit for your beginner compound bow, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials to ensure a successful setup.
- First and foremost, you’ll need a bow press to safely and effectively adjust the bow’s limbs and string.
- A bow vise will also provide a stable platform for working on your bow.
- A draw board is crucial for checking and adjusting draw length and weight. They make life much easier when checking, holding weight, DL, cam timing, cam lean at full draw, rest timing, etc.
- Allen keys are necessary for making small adjustments to various bow components.
- A tape measure will help you accurately measure and align different bow parts.
- Consider using a laser center shot tool for precise alignment.
- Leveling tools are essential to ensure the bow is perfectly aligned.
- Bowstring serving and loop material are needed to construct and maintain the bowstrings.
- Blue thread locker can secure screws and prevent them from loosening.
- Scissors and a pocket knife or razor blade are necessary for cutting and trimming materials.
- Lastly, a lighter is useful for melting the ends of bow strings.
- Don’t forget to have a D-loop or needle-nose pliers for installing and adjusting the D-loop.
read.. our review of the best beginner compound bows
Installing The Arrow Rest
Begin by positioning your bow securely in a bow vise, ensuring stability throughout the installation. The arrow rest plays a crucial role in arrow flight and accuracy, so it’s important to follow these steps precisely.
Start by removing any existing arrow rest and clean the mounting area thoroughly. Then, align the arrow rest with the sight window and attach it using the provided screws. Make sure it’s securely fastened to withstand the force of the shot.
Next, adjust the rest’s position to achieve the desired arrow height and center shot alignment. This will vary depending on your shooting style and preferences.
read.. Bear Archery Legit Compound
Finally, double-check all screws for tightness and give the rest a test run to ensure proper functionality. With these steps, you’ll have an arrow rest that perfectly complements your beginner compound bow.
Installing The Arrow Rest and finding your center shot
Position your bow securely in a vise and level it off. Then, mount the rest to the riser to prepare for making horizontal adjustments and finding your center shot.
Start by ensuring that the rest is securely mounted to the riser, as every bow manufacturer uses the same size hole for the rest.
Next, grab an arrow and use the Van Handle arrow level to check for any horizontal adjustments that may be needed. The center shot on most Mathews bows is typically about 13/16’ from the riser, so that’s a good starting point.
Level the arrow and observe if it runs directly through the middle of the hole where the rest is mounted, also known as the ‘Berger Hole.’ Adjust the rest if necessary to get the arrow as close to level as possible while running through the middle of the Berger Hole.
Finally, tie a nock set above the nock using 2-4 knots, and make sure to use the correct size nock for your hunting arrows. Burn off loose ends, keeping the flame away from the rest of the string to avoid damage.
Install The Peep Sight & Tie The D-Loop
Now that the nock sets are in and you’ve got the center shot, it’s time to get the peep sight set and tie the D-Loop.
Before installing the peep sight, release some tension from the bowstring by putting the bow back into the press.
To determine the correct placement of the peep sight, you can measure the distance from the D-Loop to the peep sight on a similar bow.
Most string manufacturers provide a small serving piece to help you properly position the peep sight.
If the peep sight faces the wrong direction, you can adjust it by adding or removing twists in the string.
Once the peep sight is set, move on to tying the D-Loop, which can be easily done with the help of instructional videos or articles. Don’t worry if you need to re-tie the D-Loop later, as it often takes a few tries to get it right.
After tightening the D-Loop, mount your sight to the riser and check the alignment of the peep sight by drawing your bow.
If necessary, make small adjustments to the peep sight position and add or remove twists in the string to ensure it stays in line.
Once the peep sight is in the right spot, you can tie it in. There are various methods to tie in a peep sight, so choose the one that works best for you.
Setting Up A Drop-Away Rest
Get ready to elevate your shooting experience by setting up a drop-away rest that’ll take your accuracy to new heights! To begin, thread the rest between the downward pulling cable. Press the bow and release tension from the string and cables.
Burn the end of the D-Loop material that comes with the rest. Split the cable strings just below the serving, making sure to account for the color of the string. Loosen the set screw on the rest to adjust the length of the string.
Draw the bow back to set the string at the right length, then tighten the set screw. Test the rest by drawing the bow back several times to ensure proper positioning. Once you’re done, attach a stabilizer and start shooting with unrivaled precision…
Bare vs. Ready-to-Shoot Compound Bows
Choose whether you want to opt for a bare bow or a ready-to-shoot bow, as both options have advantages and considerations to remember.
A bare bow allows you to customize and personalize your setup according to your preferences. However, outfitting it with accessories such as an arrow rest, bow sight, and bow quiver requires additional work and investment.
On the other hand, a ready-to-shoot bow comes with all these accessories installed, saving you time and effort. This option is ideal for beginners who may not have the knowledge or experience to choose and set up the accessories themselves.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your comfort level with customization and the time and money you’re willing to invest.
New or Used?
Consider whether purchasing a new or used bow is the best option for you, as each has its advantages and potential drawbacks.
When it comes to buying a used compound bow, caution is key.
While finding a good deal is possible, knowing what you’re doing is crucial. Carefully inspect every aspect of the bow for any signs of damage, and if possible, have a professional examine it before making a purchase.
A used bow could be viable if you’re buying from an archery pro shop and have consulted with knowledgeable staff.
However, if you’re a beginner with limited knowledge about compound bows and archery, you should not buy just any bow you come across. Ensure you have the expertise or seek guidance to make an informed decision.
Precision and technicality are key when setting up your bow for optimal results. Happy shooting!
