First of all thanks for your service!!!

I have always backed down the poundage alittle before packing it away as well and have been doing so for about 12 years now.I haven't had any problems with it. I would wax the string though. I am not sure if backing off the poundage will help or not. It is just the way i have choose to do it though. I will be getting a new bow in the near future I hope. There is a big difference in the let off between what is out there now and what I got 12 years ago..