Your compound bow is more than a piece of gear—it’s a finely tuned instrument of precision. Whether you’re a competitor, or a backyard archer, proper maintenance ensures your bow remains safe, accurate, and long-lasting.
At ASDW, we believe that every arrow you release carries your conviction. And that conviction deserves a bow in top condition. Here's how to keep your compound bow performing at its best:
1. Clean Your Bow Regularly
Dirt, dust, and moisture can slowly wear down your bow's finish and inner components. After every practice or trip outdoors, give your bow a quick visual inspection and clean-up.
What to do:
- Wipe down limbs, cams, and riser with a soft microfiber cloth.
- Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove dirt from tight areas.
- Avoid harsh chemicals—a damp cloth with mild soap is enough if needed.
Tip: If your bow gets wet, dry it immediately and store it in a dry place to avoid rust or string mildew.
2. Check and Maintain the Strings & Cables
Your string and cables are under constant tension and friction. Regular checks will help prevent misfires and increase the life of your bow.
Do this every 2–4 weeks (or after every 200 shots):
- Look for fraying, separation, or wear near the cams and contact points.
- Apply bowstring wax to keep the fibers protected and flexible.
- Check for twists or alignment shifts in the cables.
Tip: Replace strings every 12–18 months, or sooner if you shoot frequently.
3. Inspect Cams and Axles
The cams are the heart of your compound bow's power system. Misaligned or damaged cams will ruin your accuracy and could cause injury.
Maintenance checklist:
- Make sure cam timing is synchronized (both cams should roll over evenly).
- Check that axles are rotating smoothly without sticking or grinding.
- Listen for unusual noise—squeaks may indicate debris or metal-on-metal contact.
Tip: If you're unsure how to check timing, take it to a pro shop or use a bow press with a draw board.
4. Tighten All Screws and Bolts
With repeated use, vibrations can loosen bolts over time—especially on sights, rests, limb pockets, and stabilizers.
Maintenance steps:
- Use the proper Allen wrench to check all hardware once a month.
- Apply a non-permanent thread locker (like blue Loctite) for accessories if needed.
- Avoid over-tightening—torque to factory recommendations.
Tip: Loose hardware can cause noise, accuracy issues, or damage to your riser over time.
5. Check Draw Stop and Let-Off Settings
If your bow has adjustable draw stop positions or let-off modules, verify they’re still in place and functioning correctly. Misadjusted stops can alter your anchor point and affect consistency.
What to inspect:
- Make sure draw stops are secure and not shifting.
- Test your let-off at full draw and ensure it feels the same over time.
- Measure your draw length periodically—especially if multiple users handle the bow.
Tip: Always refer to your bow’s manual or ASDW setup guide when adjusting stops or cams.
6. Store It Safely
Where and how you store your bow can affect its longevity more than you think.
Do this:
- Use a hard or padded bow case to prevent accidental damage.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or moisture.
- Never leave a bow drawn or under tension when not in use.
Tip: Avoid hanging the bow by its string—it can cause long-term stretch.
7. Annual Pro Tune-Up
Even with regular home maintenance, an annual visit to a qualified bow technician is a smart move.
They can:
- Perform a full tune-up
- Replace worn components
- Test cam timing, draw weight, and let-off
- Re-align sights and peep for maximum accuracy
Conclusion
Archery is a discipline of detail. The more attention you give to your equipment, the more it gives back in performance and reliability. At ASDW, our compound bows are built for serious shooters—but even the best gear needs care.
By following this simple maintenance routine, you ensure:
Greater shot-to-shot consistency
Longer bow lifespan
Safer shooting conditions
A deeper connection between you and your craft
Let your focus stay on the target—leave nothing else to chance.