If my string is still in good shape but my serving is looking pretty worn can I just cut it off and reserve it?
Yes. I do it all the time for myself and other archers. Look at your loops for wear, that is the most stressed area.
Kris
Thank you Kris
2 cents...a couple months backs I had a string break at full draw under the serving. My best guess is the metal nock point had started to cause wear without me seeing it. I look at everything closer now....Tom.
Just a couple of weeks ago, I woke up and found half my bowstring
on the stairs. My bow was laying on my desk and chair, under where it hangs on the wall, with the other half a string. Broke right under my tied on nock point.
I had noticed the serving looking not as tight and snug as it had been, but didn't think it was too bad. Well, it was. Similar to Tom, I think the nock wore the string - probably too tight, and too narrow diameter material.
Just thankful it didn't break while drawing, and the bow is fine.
Quite a wake up call.
here is a video I did a few weeks ago on replacing serving. Might help you.
http://tbwpodcast.com/video-21-how-to-serve-a-bow-string/
I checked my loops they look fine, the spot that concerns me is right under my tied on nock point just as slowbowjoe mentioned.
Thanks to everyone for the input,and thanks for the video LB_hntr it will definitely help because this will be the first time I have served a string before.
If there is any question as to the integrity of the string, replace it, lot cheaper than a new bow. many great string builders right here, lefties r us, champion,sbd,rick ****** to name a few
I suspect that tied on nocking points can create a problem if they are set with super glue. The real thin stuff can penetrate the serving and affect the string body itself.
It may affect it chemically or cause abrasion. I'm not sure which. I only use the gel glues and don't put it on until I have at least one layer laid down.
The crimp on nocks can pinch the string.
To answer your question, Yes you can replace your serving.
Every other point that has been on this post is one to listen to.
If you don't know how, learn how to make your own strings and replace them as you think you need to. If I can learn how anyone can!!!
I use dental floss to tie my nocking points on and then use a stick match and melt wax into the nocking point (be careful and roll the string under the heat). I re-wax the nocking point often.
I usually hate it when someone responds off topic, but that's what I did. My bad.
Building an entire string isn't everyone's cup of tea but repairing serving and maintaining the string should be in every archers bag of tricks.
The serving can be replaced and it's a pretty simple process. A serving jig and some serving thread are all that's needed. You should already have a hunk of string wax.
When you remove the old serving inspect the string for obvious signs of wear. Replace the whole string if you find any.
Wax the area of the serving well and rub it in with a small pad of leather before reserving.
Thank you all for your help. dont worry about getting off topic on this thread Charlie, but I think I should probably learn to serve my own strings first before jumping into making my own strings.
Once again thank you all.