I didn't have the gumband on when I shot my deer. I just had a new o-ring on because I lost the extra pack that came with my broadheads. They do wear out so you caneither shift them so that the wear spotis in a different lcation or buy new ones. I believe they are size #47 at Lowes. I do like the second rubber band idea and I think I am going to put them on as soon as I can find bands that small.