In the world of recurve bow hunting, silence is not just golden; it’s essential. Today’s market brims with bowstring silencers, each promising the stealth of a shadow.
Natural fur, sleek synthetics—I’ve tried them all.
Their pledge? To hush the twang of my bow as an arrow takes flight.
Which silencer truly speaks the language of silence?
Join me in the hunt for the perfect, whisper-quiet ally.
We’re peeling back the layers on the elite of quiet—because, in the woods, every decibel counts.
Let’s find your bow’s silent partner.
At a Glance: Here are my Top Picks of Bowstring Silencers
Best String Silencers
Bowjax 1036 Ultra Bow Jax II Dampener Pack of 4 (Black)
The Bowjax 1036 Ultra Bow Jax II Dampeners are a cut above in silencer tech, clamping onto your bowstring like a high-tech muzzle.
Installation can be a chore—removing the string or sliding the dampener over it—so I often advise a trip to the pros for a secure fit.
In my hands-on experience, these dampeners excel in quelling string vibration.
Their design is not just about weight; it’s about precision.
They minimize the string’s wild dance to a mere shiver, slashing vibration by up to 50%.
If you’re serious about your shot’s stealth and stability, the 1036 could be your ticket to silent success.
LimbSaver Super String Leech
The Super String Leech completely eliminates string noise while still providing maximum speed.
This lightweight and weatherproof leech is perfect for any situation, and its string wedge resists cutting.
You won’t find a better way to keep your strings quiet!
- Suitable for high-poundage bows and crossbows
It’s made from LimbSaver’s proprietary vibration-dampening NAVCOM material, so it’s quick and easy to install and built to last outdoors in harsh environments.
Don’t let noisy strings keep you from getting the most out of your bow or crossbow.
LimbSaver has the perfect solution! This Super String Leech attaches to your bowstring and absorbs unwanted vibration, reducing noise and increasing accuracy.
Plus, it’s made in the USA with the highest quality materials available!
Mountain Man Beaver Balls String Silencers
As someone who appreciates the craft of traditional archery, I have a soft spot for the classic Mountain Man Beaver Balls.
The use of genuine beaver fur not only appeals to the traditionalist aesthetic but also to their commitment to natural materials.
Sure, they might not outperform the latest synthetic silencers regarding vibration reduction.
Still, there’s something inherently satisfying about using a product that aligns with the ethos of the traditional bowhunter.
From my experience, Beaver Balls hold up well against other natural fur silencers.
Their installation is a breeze; just a pinch onto the string, and you’re ready.
However, it’s undeniable that they’re heavier, and that weight can impact your arrow’s velocity.
For the purist who favors wood over carbon and seeks harmony with archery’s ancient roots, Beaver Balls are a charming choice.
Yet, for those who prioritize performance and embrace modernity, it’s worth exploring other options.
Synthetics are lighter, less affected by wet conditions, and typically don’t sacrifice arrow speed.
The right choice really depends on your priorities and what you value most in your archery experience.
Traditional Archery – Recurve Bow Bowstring Groove Silencers
Another popular silencer with the traditional archery crowd are Traditional Gear’s Bow String Groove Silencers.
As the manufacturer’s name implies, these fit in with the traditional archery setup.
They are made of real leather (a natural material).
These silencers are designed only for recurve bows.
They will not work on compound bows or modern crossbows.
Also, the Groove Silencer is really more of a limb silencer or bow silencer than a string silencer.
String silencers are usually attached to the bowstring and dampen vibration of the string.
Silencers like the Groove Silencers actually stick to the bow and reduce the slap of the string against the bow (known as limb slap).
They do not reduce string vibration at all!
That being said, they work very well for reducing limb slap.
They are easy to install. The groove silencer is a thin pad of leather with a groove where the string should sit.
Line up the bowstring with the groove on the silencer, then simply stick the silencer to the inside surface of the limbs.
The silencers will either have an adhesive on the back or come with a small amount of adhesive to use.
These can be used in combination with true string silencers, and most archers tend to use both for maximum silencing.
12 pc PRO PACK Camo Whisker Bowstring Silencer for Compounds Recurve and Longbows
The Trad Gear Accessories PRO PACK silencers stand out for their effectiveness and popularity.
These rubber “whiskers” attach easily to the bowstring, reducing noise by dampening vibration.
Simple to install with just an overhand knot, they can also be styled into a round shape with zip ties or bobby pins, though it’s purely aesthetic.
Lightweight, weather-resistant, and less impactful on arrow speed than fur options.
These whiskers are a top choice for archers seeking a reliable and affordable silencing solution.
Saunders VUDU String Dampener 3/8″ Cable Rod Mount
The Saunders VUDU String Dampener is a string stop that halts the bowstring’s motion by providing a barrier it can’t pass.
Unlike traditional silencers that add weight to dampen vibration, the VUDU stops the string from completing its vibration cycle, cutting the noise and movement significantly.
Bowstring stops are often used in conjunction with whisker stops or weight stops.
The Saunders VUDU is a lightweight, carbon rod silencer designed for attachment to the cable guide bar.
It features a light rubber and plastic piston that requires regular lubrication for optimal performance, significantly reducing string vibration and noise upon the arrow’s release.
All bowstring silencers aim to quiet the sound of the string by dampening vibration, though they may slightly slow the arrow.
While effectiveness varies, any noise reduction is beneficial for hunters.
For maximum silence, consider combining different silencers.
Benefits Of Bowstring Silencers
Small in size yet significant in impact, bowstring silencers offer three key benefits:
they reduce vibration, enhance string durability, and ensure quieter shooting.
Selecting the Right Silencer:
- Fit: It’s all about what suits you. Some silencers require string disassembly, while others easily attach. If you’re not keen on DIY, consider professional installation.
- Noise Reduction: Essential for hunters who rely on stealth, and equally beneficial for target archers who value vibration reduction.
- Waterproofing: A must-have for hunters in varying weather conditions. For range archery, it’s a secondary concern.
- Material and Quality: From traditional beaver hide to modern synthetics, quality is non-negotiable, especially if installation involves re-stringing.
