Bow Serving?

[Jacob Parnell]

Hi!

So I made my first bow a while back and I was wondering, do I need serving on the bowstring? I can't find any anywhere and I have been shooting without one for a bit.  Is there a primitive (or non-primitive) way I could make one without using actual serving?

Thanks!
            Jacob

[JackCrafty]

Serving is nice but, technically, you don't need it with "flemish twist" type strings.  If your string is made from a bunch of straight strands or threads, and not twisted or made from twisted strands, then yes a serving is best.

Braided fishing line works well and you can usually get it from a local tackle shop.  Don't get the mono-filament type fishing line.

[Jacob Parnell]

Thank you! luckily, the bowstring I have now is a flemish. 

[Danzn Bar]

I've used 25# clear fishing mono before in a pinch and it worked pretty well................
DBar

[bubbles]

I use the same linen thread I use for the bow string.

[Badly Bent]

Helps cut down on string abrasion from shooting glove or arm guards so its a good idea to use something I think.

[dbb]

Beside greatly increase the life of the string it also makes for better accuracy as the arrow slips from the string more consistantly

[ssgtchad]

I use spiderwire fishing line....the braided stuff.

[steve b.]

I've tried to go without but the string will fray, flemish or not.

[osage outlaw]

I have used heavy duty outdoor thread before when I was out of serving material.  It worked just fine but was a little thinner than normal serving string.

[paoliguy]

2x on the Spiderwire, I have been using it of late and so far no issues.

[sleek]

I use the zebco version of spider wire for about 1/3 the cost. Actually, I make the entire string out of it. Works perfectly.

[bow101]

I use black thread and smear some super glue on it to make it last..

[paoliguy]

sleek,

Are you making flemish twist strings or endless loop with the Zebco braid? I have been wary of it because I thought it might be too slick?

[sleek]

I make a reverse twist string with a slip knot at one end and the other, I take the loose ends and braid them into the reverse twisted strands of string. Then I feed the string into the loop that just made to make it a slip knot also.the braid into the string needs to be about 6 inches long otherwise it will start to slip. Start to finish I can make a string in about 10 min like this.