backing off limbs

yote runner · 10-20-2002, 09:33 PM

unfortunately i can't make it out bowhunting this year (transitional career change). although i've had some time to practice in the yard a little, i've been exploiting other game to hunt. so i don't plan on shooting again till next spring/early summer. i've traditionally backed my limbs off on my bow before storage for the winter- i've been told this saves the limbs in the long run. is this true?? and how far should i back them off?? i typically shoot with the limbs bottomed out, then back them off about 3-4 full turns on each limb. i shoot a carbine hawk by golden eagle. any comments or suggestions would be appreciated.

Sagittarius · 10-21-2002, 07:43 AM

yote,

Like I've said before, today's modern composite limbs are rated from 130,000 psi to over 200,000 psi. You NEVER have to back them off! Also, you're just wearing your threads that much more by doing so.
I have an 8 year old Superstar that has never been backed off. Its poundage has never changed.
Some guys say you relieve stress on your string and cables by backing your poundage down.
This is also a no factor when dealing with modern strings and cables. Especially when you change them every year to 18 months anyway.
Besides, I would rather let my string and cables wear than the threads on my riser.
On older bows that have maple laminations, yes, you should back the poundage down if you're not going to shoot it until next season.

Sag.

Edited by - Sagittarius on 10/22/2002 04:47:40

royak · 10-22-2002, 05:09 AM

I also never back mine off.