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

Pre-Storage Maintenance

Perform a thorough cleaning and inspection before storing your compound bow. This includes wiping down the bow with a soft cloth and cleaning the limb bolts, cams, and arrow rest. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris from the bow’s nocks and arrow rest. Make sure the bow’s draw weight and cam timing are set to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. If the bow has been used extensively, consider performing a walk-back tuning to ensure the cams are properly aligned.

Storage Case and Environment

Invest in a high-quality bow case or hard case that provides adequate protection for the bow. The case should be large enough to accommodate the bow’s limbs and any accessories, such as the arrow quiver. Store the bow in a dry, cool area, away from direct sunlight, which can cause the bow’s materials to degrade over time. A temperature range of 50-70°F (10-21°C) is ideal for storing a compound bow.

Arrow Rest Adjustment

Before storing the bow, adjust the arrow rest to the manufacturer’s recommended setting. This will ensure that the arrow is properly seated and aligned with the bow’s nocks. Use a paper tuning method to verify that the arrow is properly aligned with the bow’s center shot. This involves shooting arrows into a piece of paper and checking the arrow’s impact point. If the arrow is not properly aligned, adjust the arrow rest accordingly and repeat the paper tuning process until the arrow is properly centered.