How Should I Store My Compound Bow During Off-Season?

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Choosing the Right Storage Location Ideal Environment When storing your compound bow, aim for a climate-controlled environment. The ideal temperature range is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) with a humidity level of 40% to 60%. Avoid areas with extreme temperatures, such as attics or garages, which can warp wood components or damage synthetic materials.
Light Exposure Keep your bow away from direct sunlight. UV rays can degrade the finish on your bow and can also deteriorate rubber components and other materials over time. If possible, store it in a dark area or cover it with a cloth to shield it from light.
Preparing Your Bow for Storage Detaching Accessories Before storing your bow, remove all accessories, including sights, stabilizers, and quivers. This prevents any unintentional damage or pressure on these components while stored. Clean each accessory thoroughly and store them in separate compartments to avoid scratches or wear.
String and Cable Care One of the most critical steps in bow maintenance is dealing with the string and cables. Use a bow press, such as the Bohning Bow Press, to relieve tension from the string. This helps to prolong the life of the string and cables, preventing stretching or fraying.
Waxing the String Before you store your bow, apply a good quality string wax, like Bowjax Bow String Wax, to protect it from moisture and dirt. This reduces wear and helps maintain the string’s integrity. Ensure you apply the wax evenly and wipe off any excess to avoid buildup.
Storing Your Bow Choosing a Case Invest in a quality hard case for your compound bow, such as the SKB iSeries 4214. This type of case provides excellent protection against physical impacts and environmental factors. If a hard case isn’t available, a well-padded soft case can suffice, but it’s essential to ensure it offers adequate protection.
Storing Position Position the bow in the case with the limbs parallel to the base to avoid bending or warping. Avoid placing heavy items on the case, as this could create unnecessary pressure on the bow’s limbs and riser. If storing in a soft case, consider placing a foam insert inside to cradle the bow and prevent movement.
Checking Your Bow During Off-Season Regular Inspections Every month, take out your bow and perform a quick inspection. Check for any signs of wear on the string and cables, and examine the limbs for any cracks or separations. This proactive approach ensures that your bow is ready to go when hunting season arrives.
Tuning and Maintenance Use this off-season time to tune your bow. Check your sight alignment and arrow rest, and make adjustments as needed. A great product for this is the Hamskea VersaRest, which allows for easy adjustments. Additionally, check the nocking points and replace the peep sight if necessary.
Storage Tips for Broadheads and Arrows Broadhead Storage Store your broadheads separately in a dedicated case, like the Easton Broadhead Case. Keep them sharp and clean by wiping them down and applying a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Ensure that they are stored in a manner that prevents accidental opening or damage.
Arrow Storage For your arrows, consider a vertical arrow storage rack or a tube for each arrow. This prevents them from bending and keeps the fletchings from getting crushed. If using a tube, ensure it’s long enough to accommodate the length of your arrows without bending them.
Final Considerations Insurance and Documentation If your bow is particularly valuable, consider documenting its serial number and taking photos for insurance purposes. This can be invaluable in case of theft or damage.
Cleaning Before Use When you’re ready to take your bow out for the new season, perform a thorough cleaning. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the riser and limbs, and give the string another coat of wax. Check all accessories, ensuring they are clean and functioning correctly.
By following these steps, you ensure your compound bow remains in peak condition during the off-season, allowing you to focus on perfecting your shooting skills when it’s time to head back out into the field.