Is it safe to shoot a compound bow that's been strung for 25 years?

July 26, 2015 9:42 AM

I have a compound bow (about 50 pound draw) that's been in a hard case for about the past 25 years. Is it safe to shoot? Are the limbs likely to shatter? If it's not safe, is there anything I can do to save it?
posted by Caviar to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (5 answers total)

I would pull it back and forth a couple times to make sure the cams work...and then let my brother shoot it.

I hunt with a bow that's been strung for 25 years, shooting it a hundred times or so each year.

It is probably fine.
posted by bricksNmortar at 11:18 AM on July 26, 2015

I think the thing I'd be most worried about is the string (although it's probably fine). IMO the limbs will be fine. Make sure the cams are timed right (they should be letting off at the same place at the same time)
posted by RustyBrooks at 11:44 AM on July 26, 2015

Best answer: Sure, it might be OK. But without knowing how the bow was stored (climate, humidity, etc), quality and condition of materials (dry string, bent cams, etc), and previous wear and tear, it's impossible to assure you that "it's probably fine." Take the kit to a bow shop for inspection before your first draw. They'll likely direct you to replace the string (or do it for you) and will check the cams and cables; inspect the limbs for fiberglass splinters, stress lines, and hairline cracks; and tune it up.
posted by prinado at 2:36 PM on July 26, 2015 [1 favorite]

As others have said, it probably could use a new string. Fiberglass is a pretty inert material, if it's been stored in a dark relatively cool place you're fine. A shop inspection can't hurt though.
posted by werkzeuger at 2:42 PM on July 26, 2015

Compound bows are not always made of fiberglass, especially older ones. If it's made of wood composite then delamination is a possible concern. Take it to a shop to get it checked out in any case.
posted by clorox at 5:49 PM on July 28, 2015