TODAY'S CUSTOM BOWSTRINGS
Installing Or Replacing Your Own D-Loop:
Ever wanted to install or replace a d-loop on your bow string? Ever been in the field when, for one reason or another, your d-loop lets go and to continue shooting or hunting you have to replace it quickly?
Most archers that I know make a habit of carrying replacement d-loop rope in their kits. It’s one of those things that if it fails, your day in the field s over unless you can replace it. All you need is the replacement rope and a lighter or a matches.
D-loop material comes in a variety of types, colors, and sizes but by far the best material is the nylon braided rope in either .080″ (2 mm) or the .070″ (1.8 mm) sizes. Braided nylon rope is the strongest. It also will “mushroom” or melt on the ends very, very well, this is done to prevent fraying and knot slippage.
The knots are very easy to tie and once you’ve done it a few times it’ll become a matter of habit for you. A properly tied d-loop has the knots facing in opposite directions, which will help in keeping bowstring torque to a minimum. Right-handed shooters have the top knot facing to the right and the bottom knot facing to the left the opposite is true for left-handed shooters.
The knots are tied so as to tighten more on the bowstring the more the loop is pulled. With the proper “mushrooming” of the rope ends, the knot will never slip or come apart, so it is well to pay attention to the details.
Below is a is a picture that illustrates just how to tie the d-loop onto your bowstring, and since pictures “are worth
1,000 words” I’ll let it show you the way…
D-loops should not be tied so that the loop is any larger than 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch long otherwise your draw length will be compromised and you could lose some of your power stroke.
Replacing your d-loop can be done easily in the field, should you find it necessary because of wear and tear or outright failure, while hunting, participating in a 3D tournament, or simply practicing. Be sure to always include some replacement d-loop rope in your kit.
