String Construction
There are 2 types of string construction: continuous loop and flemish twist.
Continuous loop (also known as an endless loop) is a single strand of string material wrapped around in a loop to set the length of the string and continues for the desired number of strands. So to make a 14 strand string, 7 complete loops are formed. When they come together, they form a 14 strand bundle. This is what we recommend for the majority of strings.
Flemish twist strings are composed of a number of individual lengths of material of tapering lengths. 2 bundles are formed and they are twisted together. This twisting construction forms the end loop, so no end serving is used for a flemish twist string. Because of the construction method, flemish strings are stretchier than their continuous loop counterparts. This is an excellent choice for traditional shooters or those shooting vintage bows that may not have reinforced limb tips. Extra padding can be added to the end loops.
String Materials
There are many string materials out there. To help sift through that information, here's what we recommended as a good starting point for various setups:
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Olympic Recurve: 16-18 strands of 8125 continuous loop
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Barebow Recurve: 16-18 strands of 8125 continuous loop
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Traditional Recurve: 14-16 strands of B55 flemish twist
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Longbow: 12-16 strands of 8125 continuous loop
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Vintage bows without reinforced limb tips: 14-16 strands of B55 flemish twist or continuous loop (possibly with padded loops)
End Serving Materials
Our standard end serving material is BCY 2X because it conforms to curves very well and is resistant to separating. It also comes in a variety of colors. Premium serving may be used for an additional $5 per string. These are BCY Halo, BCY 62XS, Angel Majesty, or Bloodline BOA.
Here's what we recommend based on your priorities:
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Don't really care what material is used? - BCY 2X in black
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Want the end serving to match the string material color - BCY 2x in color
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Want the string material to show through the serving - BCY transparent Halo
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Durability is the main concern - BCY 62XS in black
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Want the end serving to last far longer than the string itself - Angel Majesty in black
Center Serving Materials
All center servings are done with Angel Majesty in black as this has proven to be the best center serving material around lasting far longer than the string itself. It does not wear and provides a consistent nock fit.
For those barebow shooters who are string walking as their aiming method, we still recommend Angel Majesty. However some string walkers find it to be too slippery. For those archers, we recommend BCY Powergrip as a less slippery alternative.
All strings are made on Baker Archery Product jigs and stretchers because they are simply the best out there!