Dusting off the old bow
 

I'm thinking about getting into archery again. It's been a few years since I picked up my bow. Do strings/cables weaken over time? How do I know if mine need replaced? Is there anything else I should inspect before I start shooting the bow again?

I personally would just run it in to your local archery shop and have them take a peek at it... Doesn't hurt to have someone who looks at bows all day long tell you if it is good to go or not.

check the strings for anything abnormal,
if its a compound i would check every screw/bolt and tighten it up,
might want to bring it to a shop to check the poundage, see if it dropped any

X2 It hurts alot when a cable on a compound breaks, definalt worth letting them check it out you can help it by starting to re wax the string after you check for abnormalities.

the $20 or so bucks it will cost to have your string replaced will be worth it compared to breaking a limb or injuring yourself...if it was a couple months I would say its ok..but if its year(s)...then change it...

check the strings for anything abnormal

That's funny! It will be quite a bit more than $20.

Yeah, I guess I would worry about dry rot of strings and cables if it was put up for too long.

I also said OR SO...it depends...what type of bow it is...what size etc...ebay has tons. It still is cheaper to replace a string than breaking a limb on a bow.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/MATHEWS-REEZ...item1c2f1ff40e

http://compare.ebay.com/like/2907040...Types&var=sbar

As others have said, if your not comfortable with it, have a reputable shop check it out. If no nicks or abrasions, you are probably good to go with a good waxing. Also a higher poundage bow will have put more stress on the string over time. HD.