If you’re not tired of the noise your bow makes, then feel free to move on. But if you are looking for a quick and inexpensive way to make your bow quieter, read on.
This article will help you get to the bottom of your bow noise problem, and if necessary, give you tips on how to fix the issue.
Add String Silencers
Bowstring/cable silencers come in several sizes and shapes, usually in a variety of colors too. It is essential to choose one that sits tightly and won’t come off.
LimbSaver Everlast String Leech
An inexpensive one is the LimbSaver String Leech. You do need a bow press, though, because it installs in the string – you’ll have to part the strands. Once you get the tension back, the silencer sits tight – held by the string.
Most are made from rubber, a material that is ideal for absorbing vibrations. They are inexpensive and come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes.
It’s a fast and inexpensive way to make your bow quieter, and it’s easy to put on when you string your bow and very easy to take off.
Use a Bow String Stop
Most modern compound bows have a string stop pre-installed. To reduce string movements after a shot, bowstring stops are used, which create a complete stop at a given point in a given area.
By utilizing a bowstring stop, effectively cleans up the vibration pattern within the bow itself.
With stops made of soft and durable rubber, the string is quietened significantly without affecting the speed at all. If your bow does not have a string stop yet, installing one is an easy win to stop the string vibrating and noise after a shot.
Check for Loose Screws and Bolts
You won’t be able to prevent bow vibration completely. Every bow vibrates to some extent, but you can reduce vibration by making sure all screws and bolts are tight.
That’s why you should check periodically if all screws and bolts are still tight. Loose hardware tends to resonate, creating unwanted sound and vibrations. This is a step anyone with a set of hex wrenches can do at home.
Are Heavier Arrows Quieter?
Heavier arrows will help to reduce bow vibration. Why? A heavier arrow will be able to absorb more of the energy transferred into it during the shot.
The more energy leaves the bow, the lesser the bow will vibrate to get rid of the left energy.
Too light of an arrow will cause your bow to vibrate a lot. So go for heavier ones. You can play around with different types of arrows. And yes, you may potentially lose some of your bows velocity.
Use Limb Dampeners
Most bows come with those out of the box. But in case you are not using limb dampeners yet, I highly recommend investing in them. They are pretty inexpensive and will help to reduce limb vibration after a shot.
What about a Stabilizer?
A stabilizer has two purposes.
- Reduce Hand Shock
- Balance
The metal-only versions are for balance purposes only. The constructions, including rubber or gel, will absorb vibrations – reduce noise and help bow torque.
Modern stabilizers perform both stabilizing and silencing tasks, significantly reducing the amount of vibration in your bow.
While longer stabilizers will help your accuracy, they are not ideal in more confined spaces, such as a ground blind or tree stand. I advocate medium-range stabilizers in the 5″ to 8″ lengths as a compromise.
Rest-Silencing Materials
Unless you are using a whisker-style rest, adding silencing materials eliminates or reduces vibration on a poorly-designed rest (often older models).
Whatever materials you are using – Ensure that it properly sticks and won’t fall off no matter the circumstances.
Conclusion
There are several ways to reduce bow noise. The most common strategy is to use bow stabilizers, string stops, limb dampeners, string silencers, and rest silencing material to absorb vibrations. In addition, make sure all screws and bolts a nice and tight and check for dirt and dust in your limb pockets.
See what you haven’t done yet in your bow setup to reduce noise and improve your hunting experience.
