Is this limb twisted?

Matthew Bolton · December 03, 2011, 06:24:00 PM

I noticed the other day that the string on the upper limb of my zipper longbow doesn't line up with the center of the limb. I can't tell from looking down the limb if it is twisted or not. If it helps the bow shoots dead on and the string lines up with the shelf.

njloco · December 03, 2011, 06:27:00 PM

Some bows settle in with a bit of a twist, I have a 65 Bear Kodiak that has done that. I wouldn't change it because it shoots so accurately, I'm afraid if I do straighten it, might change that.

JamesKerr · December 03, 2011, 06:27:00 PM

It looks like it might have a little twist toward the tip about the area it starts to reflex. Please post a picture of it strung as it could just be the angle at which the picture was taken.

Matthew Bolton · December 03, 2011, 06:30:00 PM

It was strung when I took this picture.

njloco · December 03, 2011, 06:38:00 PM

Can you put it down on a flat surface, or between two flat surfaces, that will tell you if it's twisted, but if it shoots good you have a decision to make.

December 03, 2011, 06:48:00 PM

Looks like it might have a teeny twist in the pic but pics can be decieving. If it is it can be fixed with a couple clamps and a blow dryer or heat gun. I have done this to a couple bows and not seen any effect on the way the bow shoots.

Bisch

Bjorn · December 03, 2011, 06:48:00 PM

Looks a little twisted, yes.

JamesKerr · December 03, 2011, 06:50:00 PM

Please post some more pics.

Matthew Bolton · December 03, 2011, 07:00:00 PM

Matthew Bolton · December 03, 2011, 07:01:00 PM

That one is it sitting flat on the string but not being pushed down. I was holding it level with my legs.

Matthew Bolton · December 03, 2011, 07:08:00 PM

Here's another one looking down the string. Sorry the pics aren't that good I'm having to use my cell phone.

Whip · December 03, 2011, 07:18:00 PM

It was hard to tell from the first two pictures, but that last one does show the string not centered, so yes, it looks like it is twisted. I assume you have made sure that the string is seated properly in the nock grooves?

Most twists can be removed simply by laying the bow on its side on a table and twisting the limb in the opposite direction. Start gently, but most will eventually be persuaded to go back where they belong without heat or anything special.

JamesKerr · December 03, 2011, 07:19:00 PM

Yes your limb is twisted. I would either run it under some hot water or use a hair dryer to get it hot and twist it just a little past straight. As it cools down it should be straight.

Matthew Bolton · December 03, 2011, 07:21:00 PM

Alright I will play with it some tonight. Do I leave it strung or unstrung when straightening?

Bjorn · December 03, 2011, 07:49:00 PM

I like them strung and see where you can get by twisting against the twist just using your hands........no hair dryer and no water.
I would also call zipper before doing anything. A polite chat can do wonders-worth a shot.

njloco · December 03, 2011, 07:50:00 PM

If you use a heat gun at all, be real careful with it. I would try Whip's way first and progress to a hair blower and then warm water then hot then as a last resort the heat gun.

zipper bowss · December 03, 2011, 07:53:00 PM

Matthew,you have a pm.
Bill

L. E. Carroll · December 06, 2011, 05:14:00 AM

I'm glad to see the bowyer has contacted you on this. I think I'd have him address this if he's willing?