Time for Maintenance

[admin]

Well, most likely I am done hunting with my bow. Unless for some reason I don't get a deer during gun season. So I will be doing some maintenance on the bow. I am going to replace the string.

So question for you more experienced bowhunter's is. If you use string silencers do you prefer the cat whiskers or do you like the leaches? I currently have whiskers on mine. I've heard good and bad about the leaches, the bad mostly being that some have had them fly off. Anyone have any experience with this?

With a new and better string I want to go to a peep without the tubing. Any recommendations there?

Just looking for advice, recommendations and/or opinions.

Thanks,
Mike

[ScottC]

Well, while not that experienced, I will put in my .02. My Switchback uses nothing on the string. Regarding my peep: I use a True-Vision Hunter Peep from Eastman Outfitters. It has a 1/8" diameter. I like it & see everything I need to see...clearly.

[michihunter]

If your going with string silencers, use Beaver Balls!! As for a peep, go without!! ;D ;D

[admin]

Thanks guys, I myself don't think I could shoot without a peep. It is more for confidence than anything, I'm one that won't take a shot unless I know without a shadow of a doubt that it will be a perfect shot. So in my mind I would probably second guess myself without one. Just me.

As far a string silencers I've always wondered if they are really necessary. Just wondering how many of you don't use them.

[ScottC]

admin said:

As far a string silencers I've always wondered if they are really necessary. Just wondering how many of you don't use them.

Some bow manufacturers have them in the strings which come with their bows, so maybe they are needed. Only way to tell about your bow would be to shoot with a decible reading machine. Shoot with and without.

As I said, my SB does not need anything on the string. I use Limbsavers on my limbs to absorb shock, as well as a stabilizer for the same purpose. Doing that helps reduce any extra noise.

[michihunter]

I second what Scott said. There is NOTHING on my string except a D-Loop and a factory recommended speed nock near the cam. Mike, I truly recommend at least trying without a pep. You may be pleasantly surprised at the outcome. I too fought it for a long time. Finally decided to try it and I'll nver go back. You coulod always have one installed if you find you don't like it. Just remember, you MUST have a consistent anchor point in order to shoot peepless. This will force you into becoming a better archer.

[admin]

Do you shoot with both eyes open not using a peep?

[ScottC]

Thanks for reminding me about my D-Loop Ted. I do have a D-Loop on my string, as well as a kisser.

As for shooting without a peep. Not sure I could do it, even though I have a kisser. Right now I shoot with one eye closed. Leaving both open would be a hard habit to break...something for the off season. I also plan on using a back tension release during the off season. Doing so is supposed to help with 'target panic' and to help be more accurate with the shot.

[admin]

No plans for any changes right now. Just trying to gather ideas for the off season. The string is the one thing that I know I will change right now. The rest is all maybe right now. Want to try a few new things. Or maybe less. ;D

[ScottC]

Here is an idea for your bow, Mike. Check it out being sure to read the testimonials.

www.stsarchery.com/rearmount.shtml

[michihunter]

I was looking at the STS myself. I may give it a try. It comes highly recommended by people I respect.

Mike- I'm naturally left eye dominant so I actually close my left eye for a split second to manually get the right eye dominant. It comes real natural with practice. I shoot with both eyes open. Most people are amazed at how long I can sit in the evening. Without the peep, I can see until it's almost pitch black!!

[admin]

That STS looks very interesting, might be something for me to consider.

[ScottC]

I like my STS. Some people think there is no difference. The site has a forum, so you can read the good & bad opinions.

Ted: So, even thought you are left eye dominant, you shoot RH? I am naturally RH but left eye dom. I have to shoot lefty...

[admin]

Scott, I assume you have the rear mounted one? Is there anything special you have to do to install it or does it just go on like a stabilizer?

[ScottC]

Goes on just like a stabilizer. Since I have a front stabilizer, I bought the rear mount. As it says on the site: mount it so the string is just touching it. My shop installed it and seized the area of the string contact. It comes with seizing cord. It has a 30 day money back, no questions asked guarantee. IMO, it is worth a shot or two...or a hundred.

[intruder]

If you decide to go without string silencers you should gain between 5 to 15 fps.... if you do go with them again and use the leaches make sure your string has enough twist to it then they won't come out... I like the leaches better than the whiskers. I am toying with the idea of the beaver balls though

[michihunter]

Ted: So, even thought you are left eye dominant, you shoot RH? I am naturally RH but left eye dom. I have to shoot lefty...

Even though I'm left eye dominant, my body is extremely right hand dominant. I have no problem whatsoever shooting right handed. I tried left handed once and I couldn't get my body to cooperate. Same with guns.

[ScottC]

My grandfather must have known about my eye dominance. He taught me to shoot. I have only known shooting long guns, bows, and pool LH, even though I am RH.

[hoosieroutdoorsman]

I quit shooting the leeches,,they kept breaking off and whacking me or a bystander if at the range. The only thing I have on my string is a D-Loop and a peep sight,,I use the wheel peep since I used to use the peep and tube the tube would break and smack me in the eye or face. I use a cable guide rod silencer from Sims,,I set it where the string and cable touch it at the point where they were at rest,, works pretty good.

[4pointer]

I use the CAT WHISKERS & PUFF BALLS, NO PEEP ,BUT I DO USE A KISSER BUTTON