Hanging a compound bow by the string should be avoided because it puts unnecessary stress on the string, leading to its wear and tear.
If you use your compound bow frequently, hanging it when not in use is a more accessible option. It is much easier to get any time you feel like using it. However, you cannot just hang it the way you hang your clothes, toss it anywhere on the ground, or stuff it in a cabinet.
Archery is a costly hobby. To maximize the use of the equipment, you must avoid certain things and follow the best ideas, including how to store it properly.
If you plan to hang your compound bow by the string, you must think twice before doing it. Hanging your compound bow by the string is not advisable and should be avoided because it puts unnecessary stress on the string.
A stressed bowstring will eventually lead to its wear and tear, which can happen when it holds the entire bow’s weight, and hanging your compound bow by its string is the perfect example.
Some think doing so is not a big deal since its strings are more sturdy than others. Nevertheless, whatever bow type, remember that the bowstring is one of its most fragile parts.
To prevent the need to replace the string on your compound bow soon, refrain from hanging it by the string since this will lead to further costs for you.
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Ways to hang your compound bow in the house
Anyone can think of several ways to hang their compound bow in the house: by the cam or limb and frame. However, the best way to hang your compound bow in the house is by its frame using compound bow hangers like wall pegs, bow racks, and hooks.
You may have thought of hanging your compound bow somewhere in the house. Unlike other bows, the compound bow isn’t as fragile, yet not all parts are fit to carry its weight.
Below are the ways to hang your compound bow:
- By its cam or limb
- By its frame
- Wall pegs
- Bow racks
- Hooks
Some may suggest that hanging your compound bow by its cam or one limb is alright, while others do not. A cam or limb looks less fragile than the string and can be a better option. However, this is not always the case.
Others may have never encountered a problem with hanging their compound bow this way, but similar to the string, this is not advisable either.
It is also not a good idea because it promotes strain on these components and lessens the compound bow’s effectiveness. Also, doing so will damage them leading to frequent replacement and added costs.
Unless you don’t mind replacing your crossbow components frequently, it’s up to you to hang your compound bow by the cam or one limb, like others.
The best way to hang your compound bow is by its frame horizontally. The compound bow’s frame is its most vital part, which can hold much of its weight, putting less stress on the fragile components such as the string, cam, and limb.
Below are the compound hangers you can use to hang your compound bow:
A wall peg is a small knob affixed to the wall, door, or any concrete designed to hang things. Positioned so that each one can hold half of the bow’s weight, wall pegs or hanging pegs are a great choice.
Another compound bow hanger type to choose from is bow racks. Bow racks are wall-mounted with dowel rods or hooks to hang your compound bow. They are known for making your compound bow hang safely.
Many hook types may seem unsafe compound bow hangers. However, not all hooks are the same, and the perfect style to hang your compound bow on is the bike hook.
Bike hooks are for bikes, yet you can use them as a compound bow hanger. Since they are sturdy enough for bikes to mount on, they are also an excellent hanger for compound bows.
Aside from choosing a compound bow hanger, remember to hang your compound bow high enough to be out of reach of pets or children.
Therefore, if you hang your compound bow by its frame high enough with a sturdy hanger, your compound bow will be alright.
Does a compound bow need to be in a case?
A bow case is the best storage option for your compound bow, whether at home or when traveling. To keep it safe from any potential damage, such as accidentally dropping it on concrete surfaces or getting knocked against walls, you need to store it in a bow case.
Another way to safely store your compound bow is to place it in a bow case other than hanging it by its frame. Compared to the latter, keeping your compound bow in a bow case at home promotes long-term security.
On the contrary, hanging your compound bow is a better way of showing it off to others. Doing so makes it more vulnerable to dust, scratches, and dents, which results in a shorter life span.
Comparing the two, storing your compound bow in a bow case is ideal and preferable to hanging it.
It is also a great storage option when traveling since it secures your bow from any potential damage, including accidentally dropping it on a concrete surface or getting it knocked against walls.
Thus, you will have less worry when storing your compound bow in a bow case, whether at home or when traveling.
A compound bow case comes in three types: soft, hard, and backpack. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, explained below:
- Soft bow case
- Hard bow case
- Backpack bow case
If you prefer a case that is easy to carry around and much lighter, soft bow cases are the one for you. It is also ideal to choose soft bow cases if you don’t travel a lot or do not travel too far.
Furthermore, soft bow cases keep your compound bow gear organized and protect it from scratches and dents. You can choose soft bow cases appropriate for airline travel and others suitable for road trips.
Despite these advantages, soft bow cases offer lesser protection to your compound bow. Unlike its counterpart, it is less versatile and less preferable for long travels.
A hard bow case’s primary downside is it is heavier compared to soft bow cases. If you don’t like to carry around a heavy bow case, you should buy a soft bow case instead.
Although hard bow cases are heavier, their advantages surpass soft bow cases. Compared to soft bow cases, hard bow cases provide more protection. It is also more versatile than its counterpart.
Most hard bow cases are suitable for air travel, or you can store them safely in the car. Keeping your compound bow in a hard bow case means there is less worry on your part because it is durable enough and has enhanced features that are not present in soft bow cases.
There are hard bow cases with locks for enhanced safety. Meanwhile, some with wheels make it less hassle to carry. In addition, there are some hard bow cases that you can customize, including but not limited to adding protective foam compartments to keep your gears safer.
Another advantage of choosing hard bow cases is that it protects your compound bow from heat and moisture.
However, beware that too much exposure to these environmental conditions can still damage or warp your compound bow, even inside the hard bow case.
A backpack bow case is the least preferred storage among the three. Nevertheless, it is ideal for take-down bows. You can pack the riser, limb, arrow tube, and sight in the backpack case, which is quite a good advantage.
It is convenient since you can carry it on your back when traveling. Despite its advantages, its no hard shell protection is a huge letdown. It is less secure than a soft bow case.
Worst, storing your compound bow in a backpack case is not acceptable as carry-on luggage when traveling by plane. On the brighter side, you can keep it in the cargo hold instead since it is not crush-proof.
Therefore, the hard bow case is the best choice among the three. You will have fewer worries because your compound bow is more secure at home or when traversing.
Besides deciding between hard and soft bow cases, choosing the right size is as important. You must ensure that the bow case you choose allows enough room for your compound bow to be stored while strung.
Too large bow cases will not seal tightly inside your compound bow. At the same time, too small bow cases may end up squeezing your compound bow resulting in more significant damage.
Don’t forget to wipe your compound bow dry before storing it in a bow case if it has been rained on while shooting to prevent rusting.
Can you store a compound bow in the garage?
You should avoid storing your compound bow in the garage, especially during summer. With insufficient insulation, keeping your compound bow in the garage can lead to significant damage making it unusable.
Compound bows are no exception to the potential dangers faced by other bow types. The main factor that significantly damages the bow is extended heat and humidity exposure.
Although it’s not the only cause that damages your bow, it is still a crucial issue you must address. The location where you store your compound bow determines its life span. The wrong location can deteriorate your compound bow, while the right area promotes a longer life span.
You may have thought of storing your compound bow in the garage. However, this is a bad idea since insufficient insulation is also prevalent in a car, shed, and attic. Therefore, keeping your compound bow in these places is not advisable.
Storing your compound bow outside will end up with warped limbs, build-up on the cams or string, or worst, it will be unusable, leading to expensive repairs.
If you still choose to store it in the garage, you must place it in a hard bow case since it provides a barrier and extra protection. However, this does not guarantee that your compound bow will be entirely safe. You have to check it more frequently to make sure it isn’t getting damp.
Hence, the best area to store your compound bow is inside your home, away from direct sunlight or moldy and damp areas. It is also better to keep it in a temperature-controlled environment free from bugs.
Taking care of your compound bow doesn’t stop by ensuring it is shooting in good condition. Storing and keeping it safe even after shooting is essential, as well.
If you want your compound bow to last longer, you should not ignore the proper storage methods. Whether you store it by hanging by its frame or inside the bow case, waxing its string beforehand and placing it in a cool and dry place is just as important.
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