Frequently Asked Questions
What's your return policy?
Under normal circumstances, if a string is returned in undamaged, new condition with 35 days from the day I mailed it out—basically 30 days with a few days to allow for delivery—I currently offer hassle-free returns or exchanges for any reason. I reserve the right to revise this policy, or to refuse a return/exchange if the circumstances require it.
Strings that are damaged through use or abuse cannot be accepted for returns.
If there is an issue with a string that you believe to be a material or build-quality issue, please contact me and we will figure out how to handle it.
How do I go about making a return or exchanging a string?
Send the string back and I will either send you a replacement string or refund your purchase upon receiving the old string. The most affordable and reliable way to do this is to purchase a Non-Machineable surcharge stamp at your post office, or to buy a pre-stamped/postage paid envelope. The current cost of these stamps at the time of writing this (August 2022) is $0.99.
Another option, perhaps more convenient for you, is to double-stamp the envelope with normal postage stamps. If you already have the stamps on hand this may be easiest. If you go this route I would encourage you to write "Non-Machineable" underneath the stamps on your envelope. Other, more expensive postage options are at your discretion, and will not be refunded.
What materials do you use?
Currently I use BCY DynaFLIGHT 97, made from Dyneema SK75 fibers, for bow string material. For serving I primarily use BCY 400 Nylon serving. Both of these materials are economical options that produce high quality strings with the properties I'm after.
I have also recently started to offer BCY 62XS .025" center serving, as an option my Premium strings.
Do you offer strings for non-Fast Flight compatible bows?
**EDIT: As of September 24, 2022, I currently have a limited quantity of BCY B55 that I bought to make strings for a few vintage bows currently in my collection. I have two rolls: tan and green. I'll be making and selling strings with it while I have it. Once it's gone, I probably won't be buying any more for a while. If interested in a B55 string, please message me and I can get you one.**
At this time I do not offer B50/B55/Dacron/polyester strings—only BCY D97. I will continue considering these options, but currently I do not.
If your bow is not "Fast Flight"/low-stretch compatible, with tip overlays, any strings purchased will be done at your own risk. I am not liable for any damage that may come from failing to follow your bow manufacturer's guidelines or instructions.
Do you pre-stretch your strings?
Yes. All of my strings are stretched to well over 100lb of tension during the build process, and are served under tension. This pre-stretching goes a long way in reducing the amount of time it takes to "shoot-in" a string, but it does not eliminate it. It is very likely that your string will lengthen somewhat in your first few shooting sessions. Opinions vary on how necessary this pre-stretching is, but in my opinion at least, it just makes for a better finished string.
Will you make a string for my Horsebow/English Longbow/Target recurve/[enter bow type of choice]?
I specialize in making Flemish Twist strings for traditional Long Bows and Recurves, but the strings should also work well on other bow types. English Longbows and Olympic-style target recurve bows shouldn't have many special considerations for string types. If you need the string to be made to certain specifications, please let me know.
Horsebow's of various kinds are a bit of a special consideration. Usually they are short strings with very large loops. Many horsebow makers ship their bows with Endless Loop strings, but most of the time a Flemish Twist string would work fine as well. I will just need to know the proper specifications to build the string.
I do not, however, make strings for any kind of compound bow. For that I would recommend visiting your local archery shop, or contacting a string maker who works specifically with compound bows.
Can you make my string to [insert length of choice]"?
Generally speaking, I can make strings to any length. Special considerations might need to be made for especially short or long strings. Please contact me. As far as fractional-inch measurements, I normally encourage customers to round-up to the nearest inch, and just order a string that is slightly "long." You can adjust the string length once you get it by twisting it more. It is harder to guarantee an exact match on your desired length. It is always better to err more on the side of too long, rather than too short. (NOTE: It is possible that the string fibers will contract slightly when they haven't been under tension for a while. This is normal. Once in use again the string should settle in.)
What kind of modifications will you make to a "normal" string on a custom order?
I have no problem modifying the strand count, loop sizes, and serving length and/or location. Simply let me know what you want changed from my "standard" order. For more involved modifications like padded loops, built up serving areas, accent colors or custom color combinations, please check out my Premium strings. These modifications are more involved and require extra work, and therefore cost slightly more.
This string is different from the last one I bought from you in [insert way]. Why?
I do my best to follow the exact same process for every string I make, and I strive to be consistent. However, as with any hand-made craft, slight variations are to be expected. Differences in unexpected things like colors, or spool-to-spool differences in the same colors can result in small changes in things like thickness, exact-finished length, the number of twists needed to give a certain length, etc. Small differences in loop sizes are also common.
If you suspect that something is abnormal or very different from other strings you have used, please let me know and we'll try to work out whatever the issue might be.
My string is too short. What do I do?
There are two main ways in which an ordered string can end up "too short" for your bow, and it's important to know which it is. (1) The string that was ordered was shorter than the proper string for the bow. (2) The string you were sent ended up shorter than intended.
If (1), there really isn't anything that can be done other than returning/exchanging the string for one that's longer. While inconvenient, this will get you a string that's the right length. I urge buyers to stick to the 3" shorter than the bow recommendation, not the older 4" shorter recommendation that was commonly cited for Dacron strings on recurve bows.
If (2), and the string is slightly shorter than expected, there are usually a few follow-up questions. First, Did you already try to string the bow and see if is within the proper brace height range? If yes, and the string is simply too short for the bow, contact me for a return or exchange. If not, I would suggest trying to string the bow.
It is not unusual for the string fibers to contract somewhat during shipping, as they haven't been under tension for a while. So if you measure it just out of the envelope before putting it on the bow, it might measure 1/2" or so "short"—but once under tension again it will be the correct length.
In some cases "untwisting" the string slightly will give you the extra length you need to get the bow to your preferred brace height. But if doing so, do it carefully. Do not "untwist" it too far.
If short for either reason, please contact me and we'll work to get you a string that's the right length, or I'll refund your purchase. I double-check the length of all strings before sending them out, but on a few rare occasions customers have ended up with strings that are shorter than they needed.
The serving position is too low. My finger/the arrow is barely on the serving. What can I do?
The default center serving specifications are around 7" of total serving length. About 3" of that serving length is above the center of the string, and 4" below. I came to these measurements based on what seemed to work well on my own bows. It is a "happy-medium" that works well for most, but perhaps not for all. With that said, all bows have slightly different nocking locations, due to handle placement, shelf heights, arrow rests, etc. If you suspect you will need or want a different serving measurement, please let me know. If you can let me know before making or with your order, we can get it right the first time.
Once you have your string, if the serving is in the wrong location for you, we may be able to arrange for a return/exchange, or I can re-serve the string for you. You may also be able to have a local archery shop re-serve the string for you.
My arrow nocks are too loose or won't "click" on to the string.
This is a potential issue with smaller diameter strings. By default I make strings from 12 strands of D97. For my personal collection of bows and arrows this usually results in a good arrow fit, but for some arrow/nock combinations it might be slightly small. Different colors of D97 are different thicknesses, so some strings end up skinnier or fatter than others.
You may have some luck with "pinching" your nocks. Some archers have luck letting their nocks sit in hot water for a while, and then pinching them slightly. It works well sometimes, but not always. Note: This is not recommended for older nocks that might be brittle.
My general recommendations are for 12 strands over 10 strands. While 10 strands works well for many arrow nocks (especially newer styled nocks, often for carbon arrows), it is too narrow for many. A 12 strand string works well for most, but not all. If you are worried about or suspect your nocks might fit loose with a 12 strand string, please select 14 strands instead. For some older-styled glue-on nocks, this will work better.
If you can't find something that works for you and would like to exchange your string for one of a larger strand count, please contact me. If you have the means and/or don't want to wait, re-serving or even double-serving the string in the nocking location is an option. Your local archery shop might do this. Costs vary.
Keep in mind that you do not want an arrow fit that is too tight. That can result in poor flight and a loss of arrow velocity. The rule of thumb for plastic nocks is that you want the arrow to "click" onto the string, but to come off with a sharp tap.
Can you make my string specifically for [insert make/model bow] and/or [insert arrow or nock type]?
Specific make/model/draw weight information can be useful. However, I am just a small business of one person, and my personal bow and arrow collection is fairly small compared to many. I haven't owned or used most of the bows in question.
Far more useful information would be the preferred loop sizes for your bow. A measurement about 4-6" down the top limb can be very helpful. Another helpful measurement can be where the shelf/nocking location is in reference to the total string length, or string center.
As far as arrow nocks, my personal arrow collection includes 9 different nock types:
How long will this string last?
If taken care of well and not abused, a well made D97 Flemish Twist string can last several thousands of shots and several years. If abused or subjected to high-wear situations, they can wear out more quickly.
If you carry your bow through the woods and the string is regularly catching on branches, twigs, thorns, or anything with a hard/rough edge, it can cause unnecessary damage. Things like regular arm-slap, especially if your string hits clothing or arm guards with buttons, zippers, or rivets, can cause additional wear.
Make a habit of regularly inspecting the condition of your strings. Take note of any areas that are experiencing additional wear. If it gets bad, don't hesitate to replace the string. Occasionally applying a light coat of your string wax of choice can help keep your string in good shape.
With all of that said, bow strings should be considered "wear items," and occasional replacement is a good idea. If in doubt, replace it!
There are frayed strands near the loops of my string. Is it about to break?
These are probably the "tag ends" from the "Flemish" splice. It is very common that these come exposed over time, and it doesn't mean your string is failing. A light application of wax and rubbing it in can help hold down the tag ends. You might never see them—but if they do start to show a little, it's usually nothing to worry about. If concerned or unsure about whether or not it's something to worry about, feel free to contact me. Pictures can be very helpful in this situation.
A possible exception to this applies to recurve bows that have significant limb/string contact on the underside/belly side of the recurve—especially if the limb has string grooves, because even minor mis-alignment of the limbs can cause the string to hit the edges of those grooves and wear faster. This should be considered normal wear-and-tear, but keep an eye on this area and apply wax more regularly. If concerned, replace the string.
The center serving is starting to separate. Is my string going to break? Should I replace it?
While it doesn't always happen, this is not uncommon, and usually isn't not a reason to be concerned. The longer you use a string, the more likely the serving is to start separating. In some cases it can be ignored completely. If it is becoming more apparent or getting worse, oftentimes you can simply have the string re-served and continue using it. If the separation is right at the nocking area, or at the top or bottom of the serving, you will probably want to have it re-served as soon as you can.
If the string is new, and within the normal return window (35 days from the day it was mailed), as long as I can determine that the issue isn't a result of abuse or some attempt to modify the string, I will re-serve (or potentially replace) the string for you at no charge. In some cases it might be more time and/or cost-efficient to have a local archery shop do this for you, however. As always, if it seems unusual, feel free to contact me with any concerns.
My string is damaged in some other way. Will you replace it?
If your string is damaged in any way, please contact me. Pictures are very helpful in these situations. Determining the type and cause of the damage will be necessary.
Normal wear to the string that usually isn't a need for concern: Exposed tag ends, minor serving separation, slight "fuzzing" above or below the serving area (especially lower area, and more especially if you experience regular arm slap).
If you suspect that the string is damaged or failing due to a material or craftsmanship defect, and you are within the normal return period, in most cases I will replace the string for you, no questions asked. If the string has been damaged due to abuse or attempted modifications to the string, the string cannot be returned or replaced.
Will you include a pair of string silencers with my string?
I currently do not offer this service. It is something I am considering offering in the future.
Will you tie on a nocking point to my string?
I typically prefer to let the archer handle this on their own, since every bow requires a different nocking location for good arrow flight—and that is something the archer should experiment with on their own. I will, however, include a length of serving thread of about 12" (in any color) for you to tie on your own nocking point, if requested, free of charge.
For any other questions or issues, please feel free to Contact Me, and I'll do my best to respond in detail. Thanks!
Under normal circumstances, if a string is returned in undamaged, new condition with 35 days from the day I mailed it out—basically 30 days with a few days to allow for delivery—I currently offer hassle-free returns or exchanges for any reason. I reserve the right to revise this policy, or to refuse a return/exchange if the circumstances require it.
Strings that are damaged through use or abuse cannot be accepted for returns.
If there is an issue with a string that you believe to be a material or build-quality issue, please contact me and we will figure out how to handle it.
How do I go about making a return or exchanging a string?
Send the string back and I will either send you a replacement string or refund your purchase upon receiving the old string. The most affordable and reliable way to do this is to purchase a Non-Machineable surcharge stamp at your post office, or to buy a pre-stamped/postage paid envelope. The current cost of these stamps at the time of writing this (August 2022) is $0.99.
Another option, perhaps more convenient for you, is to double-stamp the envelope with normal postage stamps. If you already have the stamps on hand this may be easiest. If you go this route I would encourage you to write "Non-Machineable" underneath the stamps on your envelope. Other, more expensive postage options are at your discretion, and will not be refunded.
What materials do you use?
Currently I use BCY DynaFLIGHT 97, made from Dyneema SK75 fibers, for bow string material. For serving I primarily use BCY 400 Nylon serving. Both of these materials are economical options that produce high quality strings with the properties I'm after.
I have also recently started to offer BCY 62XS .025" center serving, as an option my Premium strings.
Do you offer strings for non-Fast Flight compatible bows?
**EDIT: As of September 24, 2022, I currently have a limited quantity of BCY B55 that I bought to make strings for a few vintage bows currently in my collection. I have two rolls: tan and green. I'll be making and selling strings with it while I have it. Once it's gone, I probably won't be buying any more for a while. If interested in a B55 string, please message me and I can get you one.**
At this time I do not offer B50/B55/Dacron/polyester strings—only BCY D97. I will continue considering these options, but currently I do not.
If your bow is not "Fast Flight"/low-stretch compatible, with tip overlays, any strings purchased will be done at your own risk. I am not liable for any damage that may come from failing to follow your bow manufacturer's guidelines or instructions.
Do you pre-stretch your strings?
Yes. All of my strings are stretched to well over 100lb of tension during the build process, and are served under tension. This pre-stretching goes a long way in reducing the amount of time it takes to "shoot-in" a string, but it does not eliminate it. It is very likely that your string will lengthen somewhat in your first few shooting sessions. Opinions vary on how necessary this pre-stretching is, but in my opinion at least, it just makes for a better finished string.
Will you make a string for my Horsebow/English Longbow/Target recurve/[enter bow type of choice]?
I specialize in making Flemish Twist strings for traditional Long Bows and Recurves, but the strings should also work well on other bow types. English Longbows and Olympic-style target recurve bows shouldn't have many special considerations for string types. If you need the string to be made to certain specifications, please let me know.
Horsebow's of various kinds are a bit of a special consideration. Usually they are short strings with very large loops. Many horsebow makers ship their bows with Endless Loop strings, but most of the time a Flemish Twist string would work fine as well. I will just need to know the proper specifications to build the string.
I do not, however, make strings for any kind of compound bow. For that I would recommend visiting your local archery shop, or contacting a string maker who works specifically with compound bows.
Can you make my string to [insert length of choice]"?
Generally speaking, I can make strings to any length. Special considerations might need to be made for especially short or long strings. Please contact me. As far as fractional-inch measurements, I normally encourage customers to round-up to the nearest inch, and just order a string that is slightly "long." You can adjust the string length once you get it by twisting it more. It is harder to guarantee an exact match on your desired length. It is always better to err more on the side of too long, rather than too short. (NOTE: It is possible that the string fibers will contract slightly when they haven't been under tension for a while. This is normal. Once in use again the string should settle in.)
What kind of modifications will you make to a "normal" string on a custom order?
I have no problem modifying the strand count, loop sizes, and serving length and/or location. Simply let me know what you want changed from my "standard" order. For more involved modifications like padded loops, built up serving areas, accent colors or custom color combinations, please check out my Premium strings. These modifications are more involved and require extra work, and therefore cost slightly more.
This string is different from the last one I bought from you in [insert way]. Why?
I do my best to follow the exact same process for every string I make, and I strive to be consistent. However, as with any hand-made craft, slight variations are to be expected. Differences in unexpected things like colors, or spool-to-spool differences in the same colors can result in small changes in things like thickness, exact-finished length, the number of twists needed to give a certain length, etc. Small differences in loop sizes are also common.
If you suspect that something is abnormal or very different from other strings you have used, please let me know and we'll try to work out whatever the issue might be.
My string is too short. What do I do?
There are two main ways in which an ordered string can end up "too short" for your bow, and it's important to know which it is. (1) The string that was ordered was shorter than the proper string for the bow. (2) The string you were sent ended up shorter than intended.
If (1), there really isn't anything that can be done other than returning/exchanging the string for one that's longer. While inconvenient, this will get you a string that's the right length. I urge buyers to stick to the 3" shorter than the bow recommendation, not the older 4" shorter recommendation that was commonly cited for Dacron strings on recurve bows.
If (2), and the string is slightly shorter than expected, there are usually a few follow-up questions. First, Did you already try to string the bow and see if is within the proper brace height range? If yes, and the string is simply too short for the bow, contact me for a return or exchange. If not, I would suggest trying to string the bow.
It is not unusual for the string fibers to contract somewhat during shipping, as they haven't been under tension for a while. So if you measure it just out of the envelope before putting it on the bow, it might measure 1/2" or so "short"—but once under tension again it will be the correct length.
In some cases "untwisting" the string slightly will give you the extra length you need to get the bow to your preferred brace height. But if doing so, do it carefully. Do not "untwist" it too far.
If short for either reason, please contact me and we'll work to get you a string that's the right length, or I'll refund your purchase. I double-check the length of all strings before sending them out, but on a few rare occasions customers have ended up with strings that are shorter than they needed.
The serving position is too low. My finger/the arrow is barely on the serving. What can I do?
The default center serving specifications are around 7" of total serving length. About 3" of that serving length is above the center of the string, and 4" below. I came to these measurements based on what seemed to work well on my own bows. It is a "happy-medium" that works well for most, but perhaps not for all. With that said, all bows have slightly different nocking locations, due to handle placement, shelf heights, arrow rests, etc. If you suspect you will need or want a different serving measurement, please let me know. If you can let me know before making or with your order, we can get it right the first time.
Once you have your string, if the serving is in the wrong location for you, we may be able to arrange for a return/exchange, or I can re-serve the string for you. You may also be able to have a local archery shop re-serve the string for you.
My arrow nocks are too loose or won't "click" on to the string.
This is a potential issue with smaller diameter strings. By default I make strings from 12 strands of D97. For my personal collection of bows and arrows this usually results in a good arrow fit, but for some arrow/nock combinations it might be slightly small. Different colors of D97 are different thicknesses, so some strings end up skinnier or fatter than others.
You may have some luck with "pinching" your nocks. Some archers have luck letting their nocks sit in hot water for a while, and then pinching them slightly. It works well sometimes, but not always. Note: This is not recommended for older nocks that might be brittle.
My general recommendations are for 12 strands over 10 strands. While 10 strands works well for many arrow nocks (especially newer styled nocks, often for carbon arrows), it is too narrow for many. A 12 strand string works well for most, but not all. If you are worried about or suspect your nocks might fit loose with a 12 strand string, please select 14 strands instead. For some older-styled glue-on nocks, this will work better.
If you can't find something that works for you and would like to exchange your string for one of a larger strand count, please contact me. If you have the means and/or don't want to wait, re-serving or even double-serving the string in the nocking location is an option. Your local archery shop might do this. Costs vary.
Keep in mind that you do not want an arrow fit that is too tight. That can result in poor flight and a loss of arrow velocity. The rule of thumb for plastic nocks is that you want the arrow to "click" onto the string, but to come off with a sharp tap.
Can you make my string specifically for [insert make/model bow] and/or [insert arrow or nock type]?
Specific make/model/draw weight information can be useful. However, I am just a small business of one person, and my personal bow and arrow collection is fairly small compared to many. I haven't owned or used most of the bows in question.
Far more useful information would be the preferred loop sizes for your bow. A measurement about 4-6" down the top limb can be very helpful. Another helpful measurement can be where the shelf/nocking location is in reference to the total string length, or string center.
As far as arrow nocks, my personal arrow collection includes 9 different nock types:
- With 10 strands: A pretty good fit on 5/9; a slightly loose fit on 3/9; a very loose, no-click fit on 1/9.
- With 12 strands: A good fit on 6/9; a slightly loose fit on 2/9; a loose fit on 1/9.
- With 14 strands: A good fit on 5 or 6 out of 9; a fit that is arguably "too tight" on 3 or 4 out of 9; none are too loose.
- With 16 strands: A pretty good fit on about 3/9; a fit that is probably too tight on 6/9.
How long will this string last?
If taken care of well and not abused, a well made D97 Flemish Twist string can last several thousands of shots and several years. If abused or subjected to high-wear situations, they can wear out more quickly.
If you carry your bow through the woods and the string is regularly catching on branches, twigs, thorns, or anything with a hard/rough edge, it can cause unnecessary damage. Things like regular arm-slap, especially if your string hits clothing or arm guards with buttons, zippers, or rivets, can cause additional wear.
Make a habit of regularly inspecting the condition of your strings. Take note of any areas that are experiencing additional wear. If it gets bad, don't hesitate to replace the string. Occasionally applying a light coat of your string wax of choice can help keep your string in good shape.
With all of that said, bow strings should be considered "wear items," and occasional replacement is a good idea. If in doubt, replace it!
There are frayed strands near the loops of my string. Is it about to break?
These are probably the "tag ends" from the "Flemish" splice. It is very common that these come exposed over time, and it doesn't mean your string is failing. A light application of wax and rubbing it in can help hold down the tag ends. You might never see them—but if they do start to show a little, it's usually nothing to worry about. If concerned or unsure about whether or not it's something to worry about, feel free to contact me. Pictures can be very helpful in this situation.
A possible exception to this applies to recurve bows that have significant limb/string contact on the underside/belly side of the recurve—especially if the limb has string grooves, because even minor mis-alignment of the limbs can cause the string to hit the edges of those grooves and wear faster. This should be considered normal wear-and-tear, but keep an eye on this area and apply wax more regularly. If concerned, replace the string.
The center serving is starting to separate. Is my string going to break? Should I replace it?
While it doesn't always happen, this is not uncommon, and usually isn't not a reason to be concerned. The longer you use a string, the more likely the serving is to start separating. In some cases it can be ignored completely. If it is becoming more apparent or getting worse, oftentimes you can simply have the string re-served and continue using it. If the separation is right at the nocking area, or at the top or bottom of the serving, you will probably want to have it re-served as soon as you can.
If the string is new, and within the normal return window (35 days from the day it was mailed), as long as I can determine that the issue isn't a result of abuse or some attempt to modify the string, I will re-serve (or potentially replace) the string for you at no charge. In some cases it might be more time and/or cost-efficient to have a local archery shop do this for you, however. As always, if it seems unusual, feel free to contact me with any concerns.
My string is damaged in some other way. Will you replace it?
If your string is damaged in any way, please contact me. Pictures are very helpful in these situations. Determining the type and cause of the damage will be necessary.
Normal wear to the string that usually isn't a need for concern: Exposed tag ends, minor serving separation, slight "fuzzing" above or below the serving area (especially lower area, and more especially if you experience regular arm slap).
If you suspect that the string is damaged or failing due to a material or craftsmanship defect, and you are within the normal return period, in most cases I will replace the string for you, no questions asked. If the string has been damaged due to abuse or attempted modifications to the string, the string cannot be returned or replaced.
Will you include a pair of string silencers with my string?
I currently do not offer this service. It is something I am considering offering in the future.
Will you tie on a nocking point to my string?
I typically prefer to let the archer handle this on their own, since every bow requires a different nocking location for good arrow flight—and that is something the archer should experiment with on their own. I will, however, include a length of serving thread of about 12" (in any color) for you to tie on your own nocking point, if requested, free of charge.
For any other questions or issues, please feel free to Contact Me, and I'll do my best to respond in detail. Thanks!