There are a few necessary tools and accessories associated with archery. These are items that are requirements to actually being able to take part in our sport. Obviously you need a bow and some arrows, but you also need something called a recurve bow stringer.
What is a bow stringer?
A bow stringer is a tool that helps the archer attach the string to the bow by using pressure to push the limbs down, allowing you to attach the string while the tension on the limbs is removed. This tool has two pieces, usually nylon, leather, rubber, or plastic cups, that are held together on either end of a long strap or string. Each of the two rubber pieces attach to both ends of the bow with the string dangling down by the feet. This strap can be stepped on, and when the bow’s riser is held in one hand and pulled up, downward pressure is placed on the limbs of the bow, bending them enough so that the bow’s string can be properly attached to the bow.
Look at the above picture as a reference on how one company suggests to use their stringer.
As someone who has not had a stringer once when it I had to string a bow, I can say that not having a stringer and attempting to string your bow can be dangerous if not done properly. Plus, it isn’t the easiest thing to do.
Not to mention the fact that you can also damage your bow if you don’t know what you’re doing. The safest (and fastest) way to string a recurve bow is with a bow stringer.
It is possible to string a bow without one, but isn’t recommended unless you need to and because of liability issues I’m not even going to attempt to explain how to do it. This bow stringer is super cheap and conveniently sold on Amazon. Though, I do want to say that you should always check compatibility because some have said that it didn’t fit their bow.
In conclusion, the recurve bow stringer is one of those tools that every archer should own and have a couple of. It’s a good idea to keep one in your pack or case, as well as on your work bench if you need to do any tuning to your recurve bow.
For extra reading, find out how to choose your recurve bow draw weight, here.