Can You Measure the Recurve Bow String Length?

If you’re an archery enthusiast or a beginner looking to step into the exciting world of recurve bows, understanding the bow’s string length is a fundamental aspect of your journey.

The Archery Manufacturers and Merchants Organization (AMO) has established standardized methods for measuring bowstring length to ensure consistency and accuracy across the archery community.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to measure the string length of a recurve bow using the AMO standard and introduce you to a handy tool — the Bow AMO Length Calculator.

Why Measure Bow String Length?

Measuring the bowstring length accurately is crucial for several reasons:

1. Safety: A properly sized bowstring ensures that the bow functions safely and consistently. An incorrectly sized string can lead to equipment malfunction or even injury.
2. Performance: The correct string length is essential for optimizing your bow’s performance and accuracy. An improperly sized string can result in erratic arrow flight and decreased accuracy.
3. String Replacement: When it’s time to replace your bowstring, knowing the correct length ensures you get a suitable replacement that fits your bow perfectly.

How to Measure Recurve Bow String Length

Measuring the string length of a recurve bow follows the AMO standard, which defines the distance between the bowstring’s nock points when the string is under a specific amount of tension. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Brace Height Measurement Before measuring the bowstring length, you need to determine the bow’s brace height. Brace height is the distance between the deepest part of the bow’s grip and the bowstring when the bow is strung.

Step 2: Measure the AMO Bowstring Length To measure the AMO bowstring length, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape or a string measuring tool designed for this purpose. Follow these steps:

1. Secure your bow: Make sure the bow is securely and properly strung.
2. Set the bow on a flat surface: Place the bow on a level surface with the limbs facing upward.
3. Measure from nock to nock: With the bow fully strung and at its proper brace height, measure the length of the string from one nock point (the point where the arrow is nocked) to the other. Ensure you measure along the inside curve of the string.

Step 3: Use the Bow AMO Length Calculator

Now that you have the AMO string length, you can use the Bow AMO Length Calculator, which is readily available online. Enter the measured string length into the calculator, and it will provide you with the AMO bowstring length, which is the industry standard.

Final Thoughts

Measuring your recurve bow’s string length accurately is a fundamental step in ensuring both safety and performance in archery. By adhering to the AMO standard and using tools like the Bow AMO Length Calculator, you can confidently maintain and replace your bowstring as needed, enhancing your archery experience. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or just starting, knowing how to measure your bow’s string length is a valuable skill that contributes to your success in the archery range or in the field.

Reference: https://sportsue.com/