Question 1

How quickly can I get a custom string built?

Accepted Answer

Our current lead time is 2-3 days. You'll be notified if it will take longer for any reason once your order is placed. Orders are fulfilled in the order they are placed as long all the required information is provided.

Question 2

Is it possible to expedite my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes! For an additional fee, you can expedite your order and have your string made and shipped out ASAP. Contact us for more details.

Question 3

Which material and strand count should I choose for my bowstring?

Accepted Answer

For most recurve bows, 8125 is a solid choice and widely used by recurve archers. Spectra 652 is also good but has a bit more stretch. B55 is very stretchy and ideal for traditional or vintage bows needing a softer string. Check each material page for strand count recommendations based on draw weight. This is a great starting point for your selection.

Question 4

Why do you need to know which nocks I am using?

Accepted Answer

We customize the size of the center serving to perfectly fit your nocks. There are far more sizes than "small groove" and "large groove" and we make sure your fit is optimal.

If you're not sure which nocks you have, check here to help identify them. https://www.ocdstrings.com/nock-guide(https://www.ocdstrings.com/nock-guide)

Question 5

Where do I tie in my nock set?

Accepted Answer

Work with your coach to determine the correct location of your nock set. Once you determine that location, it's a good idea to mark that on your bow square with sharpie to save that measurement for setting up your next string.

Question 6

What is the maximum length for a custom bowstring?

Accepted Answer

The maximum length for a custom bowstring we can build is 73" with our current setup and tooling.

Question 7

What are the longest end loops I can order?

Accepted Answer

The longest end loops we are set up to build is 4" (when folded). See https://www.ocdstrings.com/measure (https://www.ocdstrings.com/measure)under the "loops" tab for how to measure your loops.

Question 8

What's the lifespan of a bowstring?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of your bowstring depends on usage and conditions, typically ranging from 7,000 to 14,000 arrows. Look for fuzziness as the first sign of wear, which can be reduced by regular waxing. Eventually, the string's feel will change and become less forgiving, indicating it's time for a replacement.

Question 9

Is serving separation at the base of the end loop normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes & no. We build end loops to intentionally NOT have an overlap that causes a lump. That lump does not lay nicely in the limb groove and can cause twisting. As the string stretches it's normal to have a tiny bit of string material peek out in that area.
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The top (larger) loop is designed to slide down the length of the limb when unstringing the bow. The bottom (smaller) loop is designed to fit the limb as precisely as possible and should NOT be slid down the length of the limb when unstringing. Doing this can force the loop to stretch to a size it was not intended and expose more of the underlying string material. Every effort should be made to avoid this. While doing so does not make the string unsafe to shoot, it will drastically reduce the lifespan of the string as the strain on the serving material in that area can cause it to fray or break. Once that happens it is unsafe to shoot.

Question 10

What is an OCD Tailored string?

Accepted Answer

At events, we offer pre-built and pre-stretched strings using our most popular materials and colors. You can purchase these strings at the event, and we'll customize the center serving based on your shooting style and nocks. Visit us at our next event to check them out!

Question 11

Why is there no instructional video showing how to break down an elk here?

Accepted Answer

Because vegetarians don't typically know how to do that.

Frequently asked question