age and bows?

GL · 04-14-2007, 08:45 PM

i have a question that i have asked others in the past and gotten mixed answers to. Do bows weaken with age? i have several bows that are all about 5 to 8 years old and often find my self thinking they are not as fast as they once were. is that true or have i just gotten to used to them? anybody have any opinions on this?

TFOX · 04-14-2007, 08:57 PM

Most bows that were built in the past 10 -15 years are probably about the same as when they were new,as far as safe goes,IF THE STRINGS ARE REPLACED REGULARLY.

Arthur P · 04-15-2007, 09:39 AM

I've got a 40 year old recurve that still shoots as good today as it did when it was new. On the other hand, I've had a bow limbgive out after 3 months too. It's one of those things you have to keep on the lookout for, but usually a bow will last many years and never lose a bit of power. Assuming it's properly cared for and not abused.

TFOX · 04-15-2007, 10:43 AM

I agree with you Artur but there were some compounds in the early years that probably didn't hold up as well,especially through the ibo rage.

Arthur P · 04-15-2007, 11:02 AM

Quote:

I agree with you Artur but there were some compounds in the early years that probably didn't hold up as well,especially through the ibo rage.

Yep. There WAS a reason I always wanted to wear a helmet and flak jacket to tournaments in those days. That's why I added that bit at the end of my post, "Assuming it's properly cared for and not abused."

hallj86 · 04-15-2007, 11:36 AM

The quality of anything will go down over time. little things are for sure in the world but one things is taht there will always be a begining and an end. It is up to you to delay the end with proper care

Soilarch · 04-15-2007, 11:48 AM

Speaking only of compounds, cause Idon't have any trads yet, I would say no. I have a Mathews Feather-max that I bought nearly 9 years ago now. It actually has the same string on it, which isn't a good thing. But I've kept it properly waxed and its just now showing wear. I'll replace it this summer....oh, back to the question. It shoots as tight and fast as it did when I first got it. Perhaps better since I don't struggle with 60lbs AT ALL anymore.