Frequently Asked Questions
(Question 1: “Should I select a take-down or one-piece bow?”
Answer: For many who hunt within driving distance of their home the one-piece bow will probably suit all of their needs. It’s clean, simple, and graceful lines for many are traditionally appealing. However, the take-down is without a doubt far more versatile. If you have the need to travel via airline, horseback, or other means where the need to disassemble the bow is a necessity, the takedown is specifically designed for this application. The take-down configuration also offers the added-value of 'platform flexibility' with the possibility of adding additional limbs of differing draw weights and or lengths (with the initial build or at a later date). Both designs will perform nearly identically. There is no comparative advantage (one over the other) in terms of performance. When making side-by-side comparisons (in terms of the physical weight of each bow), the take-down is generally heavier by about ½ pound and therefore more stable in the hand and perhaps a bit quieter.
Question 2: “Should I select the Elite or Sitka riser configuration?”
Answer: Again, this is largely a matter of personal preference. Both the Elite and Sitka models are high-performing, precision shooting instruments.
Question 3: “Is the T2 Special Edition series bow right for me?”
Answer: These bow configurations perform equally as well as the standard Blacktail—it's really a matter of aesthetics. The T2 Special Edition series bows are available in the 18” Elite riser configuration, the 16” Sitka riser configuration, and 14" Columbian riser configuration.
Question 4: “What kind of performance can I expect from my bow?”
Answer: Blacktail bows are designed for optimal “performance” specifically in terms of stability, quietness, precision, smoothness, durability and arrow speed. Regarding arrow speed, factors such as draw length, arrow weight, shaft diameter, string type and release efficiency (friction variable) all play a role. Because of these variables defining a specific arrow speed for a particular bow model is not an easily answered question. The same bow (shot by two different archers) will very likely produce different results. Although shooting lighter weight arrows will generate higher arrow speeds, kinetic energy is compromised. The limbs will build energy as the bow is drawn. Upon release there is a specific amount of energy available. Optimum performance is gained when the right arrow (in spine and grain weight) is matched to the bow and shooter. Too light and the unused energy will resonate through the bow and create unnecessary noise. We recommend arrows with a minimum weight of 9-10 grains per pound of draw weight (at your draw length). The Blacktail Warranty requires that you use arrows of at least 8 grains per pound of draw weight.
Question 5: “How do I determine the correct bow length and draw weight for my new bow?
Answer: It is important to select a bow that “fits”. Choosing the wrong bow will lead to a disappointing archery experience. Determining the appropriate bow length is based on first determining your comfortable draw length. Draw length is measured from the throat of the arrow nock to the backside of the arrow shelf (the end of the shelf farthest away from the shooter.) Once you’ve measured your draw length, refer to the Elite Series or Sitka Series bow length charts. These charts indicate the appropriate bow length that best fits a range of draw lengths. Your draw length may fit into more than one bow length option.
One of the fastest growing segments within archery is the archer moving away from compound bows into traditional archery. If this describes you, plan on a recurve draw weight approximately 25% less than your compound draw weight. Although a heavier draw weight translates into greater performance, accurate shot placement is far more important. A common mistake is to select a draw weight that is too heavy and therefore too difficult to steady for an accurate shot. We recommend that you resist the urge to “over bow” as this can result in poor shooting form and inconsistent results. The vast majority of bows we build fall in the 45#-55# draw weight range (for men). Bows in the 30#-45# range tend to be more common for women. However, there are always exceptions.
Question 6: “Once I order my custom bow (or extra set of limbs), what is the wait time for delivery?”
Answer: Wait time varies based on the backlog of custom bow orders at any given time. It's always best to contact us for an up-to-date estimate. Bows are built in the order their deposits (minimum $250) are received. On occasion, 'In Stock' bows are available for immediate sale. If you find an 'In Stock' bow length, draw weight and wood combination that suits you, this might also be a good option to consider.
Question 7: “Can I order an 'extra set' of limbs for my 'existing' bow?”
Answer: You may order an extra set of limbs for your Blacktail bow at any time, excluding the discontinued 19" Elite configuration. However, it is always best (easier) to order an extra set of limbs at the time of your original custom bow order. If you wish to order an extra set of limbs for your 'existing' Blacktail bow, a deposit (minimum $250) is required and the wait time is the same as ordering a new custom bow. Because each bow is handcrafted, it will be necessary for the existing bow (riser and limbs) to be sent to the Blacktail Bow Company workshop. This allows us to ensure both sets of limbs (existing and new set) blend perfectly to the riser. The existing bow (riser and limbs) will be refinished at the same time the extra set of limbs are finished. This will allow all components (riser and both sets of limbs) to have the same matching sheen.
Approximately 2 weeks prior to beginning work on your extra set of limbs, a representative of Blacktail Bow Company will contact you and ask that the bow be shipped to us. Please do not send your existing bow to us prior to being directed to do so, as it will not speed up the process and will only leave you without your bow for a longer time. Please ship only the riser and existing limbs (do not send a case, bolts, string, or anything other than the existing riser and limbs). You can expect to be without your bow for approximately 4-6 weeks (during the build process).
Question 8: “Can I send my old limbs in to have the weight reduced?”
Answer: Draw weight reduction is sometimes possible, but not always. Blacktail Bows guarantees draw weight within +/- 1 pound (usually exact to customer specification). Hitting the specified draw weight during the limb build usually allows some margin for further reduction (at a future time). However, sometimes that margin is minimal and leaves little or no room for further reduction. In order to assess how much weight we can take off the limbs, the entire bow must be shipped to Blacktail Bows for inspection. Limb weight reduction (if possible) will be charged at the standard refinish fee plus shipping and handling. Allow 4-6 weeks for weight reduction/refinish service. See pricing page for more information.
Question 9: “What riser grip options are available?”
Answer: Thousands of hours of ergonomic design refinements have gone into perfecting our proprietary Blacktail riser grip options. Two grip profiles are offered --Medium Wrist grip (most commonly requested) and High Wrist grip (which fills the palm slightly more, pronating the wrist slightly upward). If you have extremely large hands, please submit a tracing of your hand (with your order form) so that scaled adjustment to the grip profile can be made if necessary. Grips are available in smooth surface (standard) or “stipple” textured surface (optional).
Question 10: “What if I need to cancel or change my custom bow order?”
Answer: Once we receive your custom bow order, we make arrangements to procure the necessary materials and prepare for the build.
Question 11: “When was my Blacktail bow made—serial number interpretation?”
Answer: For bows built from 1991-2013, you can determine the date your bow was manufactured by referring to the serial number on the limb pads (month-day-year). For bows built in 2014 and beyond the 9-digit serial number can be interpreted as follows: (Year 00, Month 00, bow produced that year 000, Grip Configuration (1 Medium Wrist or 2 High Wrist), Structural I-beam (1 fiberglass or 2 hardwood).
Question 12: “Is it safe to shoot my Blacktail bow using a high-performance 'Fast-Flight-type' string such as, Mercury or Dyna Flight 97?”
Answer: Beginning in the year 2000 all Blacktail limbs incorporated specially reinforced tips. The risers were also modified to include an internal structural I-beam to stiffen and strengthen them for a lifetime of use with 'non-stretching', high-performance string materials (such as Mercury, Rampage, D75, Dyna Flight 97 or Fast Flight). Some of the bows made between 1997 and 2000 do contain the proper reinforcing as it was an option on the order form. The only sure way to positively identify these bows is to email a photo of the tip detail to the shop. We can then make a definitive determination for you. Bows made before 1997 (and most prior to 2000) were built to shoot Dacron strings only.. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are not sure, as shooting an older bow with modern 'Fast-Flight-type' strings will damage the limbs.
Question 13: “How can I tune my bow to make it shoot more quietly?”
Answer: Part of our fundamental design criteria is to produce bows that yield optimal performance including: stability, precision, smoothness, durability, arrow speed and quietness. Properly tuned, your Blacktail bow should be very quiet. Factors that can contribute to undesirable vibration or noise can be addressed and include:
Question 14: “What is the recommended brace height for my bow?”
Answer: The brace height on your bow is measured from the throat of the grip to the string. There is a slight difference in the limb design of the Take-down vs. One-piece bow. That is why the brace height recommendations (below) are different. You may find a brace height that works well for you that doesn't quite match the chart recommendations. To adjust brace height, simply unstring the bow, remove the lower string loop from the limb and twist (to shorten) or untwist string (to lengthen).
If the string on your bow is made of B-50 Dacron, this material will stretch for the first few hundred shots. You'll want to keep close check on brace height until the string is broken in. The high performance Dyna 97, Fury or Rampage strings however, will stretch only minimally. Your new Blacktail bow will come equipped with cat whiskers for silencers (essential for minimizing vibration/noise). You may use silencers of your own preference, but remember the more you hang on your string, the greater the loss in performance.
Recommended brace heights are as follows:
Take-down Recurve Bow Brace Height
One-piece Recurve Bow Brace Height
Longbow Brace Height
Question 15: “How do I pay for my custom Blacktail bow?”
Answer: We require a minimum $250 deposit in order to secure your position on the custom bow Orders List. Bows are built in the order deposits are received. Some customers wait to pay their balance just before their bow is shipped. Others prefer to send incremental checks during the waiting period to minimize or eliminate a large balance due when their bow is ready to ship. Still others prefer to pay in full at the time of order. We are flexible and happy to accommodate whatever payment schedule is most convenient for our customers. We only ask that the balance due is paid in full, just prior to shipping. Checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, wire transfers (maximum 2) are all acceptable forms of payments.
Question 16: “Can I have my Blacktail bow refinished?”
Answer: The standard refinish fee is ($200 for Satin, $400 for High Gloss) plus shipping and handling. each addititional set of limbs, $100 for Satin, $200 for High Gloss. Allow 4-6 weeks for refinish service. When sending your bow in for refinishing, please send ONLY the riser and both sets of limbs, packaged in a standard cardboard box. Do not send bolts, bezels, string, limb sleeves, cases, etc.
Question 17: “I think I've twisted a limb...can it be straightened?”
Answer: The good news is, in most cases, a twisted limb is not a serious problem and is easily corrected. Blackail limbs are very resilient and a slightly twisted limb does not harm them or shorten the lifespan in anyway. They just need to be re-centered or straightened if this happens. Every traditional archer should become familiar with this simple fix. Please reference the Twisted Limb Guide for an easy step-by-step process to reset your limb. Click here to download the Twisted Limb Guide.
Limbs do not become twisted by themselves. It most often occurs while stringing or unstringing the bow incorrectly. By pulling the riser in a slight twist motion (instead of straight up) the resulting torque can cause a slight twist in the limb. By learning proper stringing technique, you can avoid limb twist from occurring.
To correct the problem, simply twist the limb by hand in the opposite direction until the limb is level or straight. Do this with the bow strung and the limb tips facing away from your face. When twisting the limb you will have to “over-twist” moderately, as the natural spring action of the limb will pull the limb back the other direction. You can check your progress using the long string groove in the belly of the limb to verify alignment. Partially draw the bow until the string lifts out of the groove. When slowly letting down the string, it needs to fall centered in the bottom of the groove. Keep twisting/adjusting the limb until you have the string falling exactly centered in the bottom of the groove. Once you have the string falling back to the bottom of the groove you may resume shooting.
By following the step-by-step visual guide, you will be able to solve this issue within a matter of minutes.
Question 18: “What's the best way to clean and care for my hand-engraved, solid brass limb bolts and bezels?”
Answer: We recommend BRASSO Metal Polish as a quick and easy way to remove tarnish and restore the brilliance of your brass limb bolts and bezels. This product is widely available at most hardware stores. Just remove your limb bolts and bezels from the bow, take a small dab of the metal polish on a clean rag and wipe onto the surface of the brass. The tarnish will be rubbed off the brass and onto the rag. Within seconds your bolts/bezels will look brand new. Be sure to remove all of the polish material from the recessed engraving for best results.
Question 19: “What's the standard tiller measurement for 'split finger' vs. '3-under' shooting styles?”
Answer: Although the industry standard is broader, our standard range for 'split-finger' tiller is 1/8"-3/8" (typical target is 3/16"). Our standard range for '3-under' tiller is 0"-1/8" (typical target is 1/16"). This variance accommodates some latitude for achieving the targeted draw weight. By design, the lower limb is built slightly stiffer than the upper limb.
Answer: For many who hunt within driving distance of their home the one-piece bow will probably suit all of their needs. It’s clean, simple, and graceful lines for many are traditionally appealing. However, the take-down is without a doubt far more versatile. If you have the need to travel via airline, horseback, or other means where the need to disassemble the bow is a necessity, the takedown is specifically designed for this application. The take-down configuration also offers the added-value of 'platform flexibility' with the possibility of adding additional limbs of differing draw weights and or lengths (with the initial build or at a later date). Both designs will perform nearly identically. There is no comparative advantage (one over the other) in terms of performance. When making side-by-side comparisons (in terms of the physical weight of each bow), the take-down is generally heavier by about ½ pound and therefore more stable in the hand and perhaps a bit quieter.
Question 2: “Should I select the Elite or Sitka riser configuration?”
Answer: Again, this is largely a matter of personal preference. Both the Elite and Sitka models are high-performing, precision shooting instruments.
- The Elite VL series bow (featuring a 18" riser) was designed as a cross-over bow, equally effective for hunters and 3D/competitive target shooters. The longer bow lengths (62”, 64” and 66”) will accommodate both short and longer draw lengths.
- The Sitka series bow (featuring a 16" riser) was designed specifically for those who prefer a shorter bow (56”, 58”, 60”, 62”). Ideal for hunting from tree-stands and ground-blinds. The shorter 16” riser allows archers with longer draw lengths to fit into a shorter bow comfortably. Note, the Sitka series bow is available in the take-down configuration only (not available as a one-piece).
Question 3: “Is the T2 Special Edition series bow right for me?”
Answer: These bow configurations perform equally as well as the standard Blacktail—it's really a matter of aesthetics. The T2 Special Edition series bows are available in the 18” Elite riser configuration, the 16” Sitka riser configuration, and 14" Columbian riser configuration.
- Upgrading to the exotic wood selections of the T2 Special Edition series—is a matter of personal preference
Question 4: “What kind of performance can I expect from my bow?”
Answer: Blacktail bows are designed for optimal “performance” specifically in terms of stability, quietness, precision, smoothness, durability and arrow speed. Regarding arrow speed, factors such as draw length, arrow weight, shaft diameter, string type and release efficiency (friction variable) all play a role. Because of these variables defining a specific arrow speed for a particular bow model is not an easily answered question. The same bow (shot by two different archers) will very likely produce different results. Although shooting lighter weight arrows will generate higher arrow speeds, kinetic energy is compromised. The limbs will build energy as the bow is drawn. Upon release there is a specific amount of energy available. Optimum performance is gained when the right arrow (in spine and grain weight) is matched to the bow and shooter. Too light and the unused energy will resonate through the bow and create unnecessary noise. We recommend arrows with a minimum weight of 9-10 grains per pound of draw weight (at your draw length). The Blacktail Warranty requires that you use arrows of at least 8 grains per pound of draw weight.
Question 5: “How do I determine the correct bow length and draw weight for my new bow?
Answer: It is important to select a bow that “fits”. Choosing the wrong bow will lead to a disappointing archery experience. Determining the appropriate bow length is based on first determining your comfortable draw length. Draw length is measured from the throat of the arrow nock to the backside of the arrow shelf (the end of the shelf farthest away from the shooter.) Once you’ve measured your draw length, refer to the Elite Series or Sitka Series bow length charts. These charts indicate the appropriate bow length that best fits a range of draw lengths. Your draw length may fit into more than one bow length option.
One of the fastest growing segments within archery is the archer moving away from compound bows into traditional archery. If this describes you, plan on a recurve draw weight approximately 25% less than your compound draw weight. Although a heavier draw weight translates into greater performance, accurate shot placement is far more important. A common mistake is to select a draw weight that is too heavy and therefore too difficult to steady for an accurate shot. We recommend that you resist the urge to “over bow” as this can result in poor shooting form and inconsistent results. The vast majority of bows we build fall in the 45#-55# draw weight range (for men). Bows in the 30#-45# range tend to be more common for women. However, there are always exceptions.
Question 6: “Once I order my custom bow (or extra set of limbs), what is the wait time for delivery?”
Answer: Wait time varies based on the backlog of custom bow orders at any given time. It's always best to contact us for an up-to-date estimate. Bows are built in the order their deposits (minimum $250) are received. On occasion, 'In Stock' bows are available for immediate sale. If you find an 'In Stock' bow length, draw weight and wood combination that suits you, this might also be a good option to consider.
Question 7: “Can I order an 'extra set' of limbs for my 'existing' bow?”
Answer: You may order an extra set of limbs for your Blacktail bow at any time, excluding the discontinued 19" Elite configuration. However, it is always best (easier) to order an extra set of limbs at the time of your original custom bow order. If you wish to order an extra set of limbs for your 'existing' Blacktail bow, a deposit (minimum $250) is required and the wait time is the same as ordering a new custom bow. Because each bow is handcrafted, it will be necessary for the existing bow (riser and limbs) to be sent to the Blacktail Bow Company workshop. This allows us to ensure both sets of limbs (existing and new set) blend perfectly to the riser. The existing bow (riser and limbs) will be refinished at the same time the extra set of limbs are finished. This will allow all components (riser and both sets of limbs) to have the same matching sheen.
Approximately 2 weeks prior to beginning work on your extra set of limbs, a representative of Blacktail Bow Company will contact you and ask that the bow be shipped to us. Please do not send your existing bow to us prior to being directed to do so, as it will not speed up the process and will only leave you without your bow for a longer time. Please ship only the riser and existing limbs (do not send a case, bolts, string, or anything other than the existing riser and limbs). You can expect to be without your bow for approximately 4-6 weeks (during the build process).
Question 8: “Can I send my old limbs in to have the weight reduced?”
Answer: Draw weight reduction is sometimes possible, but not always. Blacktail Bows guarantees draw weight within +/- 1 pound (usually exact to customer specification). Hitting the specified draw weight during the limb build usually allows some margin for further reduction (at a future time). However, sometimes that margin is minimal and leaves little or no room for further reduction. In order to assess how much weight we can take off the limbs, the entire bow must be shipped to Blacktail Bows for inspection. Limb weight reduction (if possible) will be charged at the standard refinish fee plus shipping and handling. Allow 4-6 weeks for weight reduction/refinish service. See pricing page for more information.
Question 9: “What riser grip options are available?”
Answer: Thousands of hours of ergonomic design refinements have gone into perfecting our proprietary Blacktail riser grip options. Two grip profiles are offered --Medium Wrist grip (most commonly requested) and High Wrist grip (which fills the palm slightly more, pronating the wrist slightly upward). If you have extremely large hands, please submit a tracing of your hand (with your order form) so that scaled adjustment to the grip profile can be made if necessary. Grips are available in smooth surface (standard) or “stipple” textured surface (optional).
Question 10: “What if I need to cancel or change my custom bow order?”
Answer: Once we receive your custom bow order, we make arrangements to procure the necessary materials and prepare for the build.
- Changes: If we have not yet started your bow, you may make changes at any time. However, we strongly encourage you to carefully think through your order specs prior to submitting your order form. Once we have started your bow, we may not be able to accommodate changes.
- Cancellation Policy: There is a $100 cancellation fee (assuming we haven’t completed your custom bow). If you cancel your custom bow order after we have completed your bow, your deposit/payments up to 50% of the quoted bow price will be retained.
Question 11: “When was my Blacktail bow made—serial number interpretation?”
Answer: For bows built from 1991-2013, you can determine the date your bow was manufactured by referring to the serial number on the limb pads (month-day-year). For bows built in 2014 and beyond the 9-digit serial number can be interpreted as follows: (Year 00, Month 00, bow produced that year 000, Grip Configuration (1 Medium Wrist or 2 High Wrist), Structural I-beam (1 fiberglass or 2 hardwood).
Question 12: “Is it safe to shoot my Blacktail bow using a high-performance 'Fast-Flight-type' string such as, Mercury or Dyna Flight 97?”
Answer: Beginning in the year 2000 all Blacktail limbs incorporated specially reinforced tips. The risers were also modified to include an internal structural I-beam to stiffen and strengthen them for a lifetime of use with 'non-stretching', high-performance string materials (such as Mercury, Rampage, D75, Dyna Flight 97 or Fast Flight). Some of the bows made between 1997 and 2000 do contain the proper reinforcing as it was an option on the order form. The only sure way to positively identify these bows is to email a photo of the tip detail to the shop. We can then make a definitive determination for you. Bows made before 1997 (and most prior to 2000) were built to shoot Dacron strings only.. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are not sure, as shooting an older bow with modern 'Fast-Flight-type' strings will damage the limbs.
Question 13: “How can I tune my bow to make it shoot more quietly?”
Answer: Part of our fundamental design criteria is to produce bows that yield optimal performance including: stability, precision, smoothness, durability, arrow speed and quietness. Properly tuned, your Blacktail bow should be very quiet. Factors that can contribute to undesirable vibration or noise can be addressed and include:
- Brace height outside the recommended range (for specific bow length)
- Worn or ineffective silencers (cat whiskers, puffs, etc.)
- Improper silencer location (we recommend locating silencers as follows: 13.75" from string ends on 56"-58" AMO bows; 15" from string ends on 60"-62" AMO bows ; 16.5" from string ends on 64"-66" AMO bows).
- Loose limb bolts
- Dry limb pad surfaces. It is good practice to lubricate the limb pad surface with a good silicone wax.
- Poorly matched arrows. Arrows that are too light or under-spined will contribute to undesirable noise.
- Nock location. If your nock is too high or too low, undesired noise will occur. We recommend a starting nock point of 5/8” above the shelf. Adjustments can be made from there.
- Worn String. A worn, frayed or unwaxed string (or unraveled serving) can contribute to excessive noise.
- Arm clearance. Check to make sure your clothing is not interfering with the string path on release. Arm position or loose clothing can contribute to noise.
- Poor release. It is best to grip the string on the pads of the fingers not in the first joint. Gripping too much string often leads to a poor release. This will in many cases translate to unnecessary or additional noise.
Question 14: “What is the recommended brace height for my bow?”
Answer: The brace height on your bow is measured from the throat of the grip to the string. There is a slight difference in the limb design of the Take-down vs. One-piece bow. That is why the brace height recommendations (below) are different. You may find a brace height that works well for you that doesn't quite match the chart recommendations. To adjust brace height, simply unstring the bow, remove the lower string loop from the limb and twist (to shorten) or untwist string (to lengthen).
If the string on your bow is made of B-50 Dacron, this material will stretch for the first few hundred shots. You'll want to keep close check on brace height until the string is broken in. The high performance Dyna 97, Fury or Rampage strings however, will stretch only minimally. Your new Blacktail bow will come equipped with cat whiskers for silencers (essential for minimizing vibration/noise). You may use silencers of your own preference, but remember the more you hang on your string, the greater the loss in performance.
Recommended brace heights are as follows:
Take-down Recurve Bow Brace Height
- 56" = 6 1/2" - 6 3/4"
- 58" = 6 3/4" - 7"
- 60" = 7" - 7 1/4"
- 62" = 7 1/4" - 7 1/2"
- 64" = 7 1/2" - 7 3/4"
- 66" = 7 3/4" - 8"
One-piece Recurve Bow Brace Height
- 60" = 7 1/4" - 7 1/2"
- 62" = 7 1/2" - 7 3/4"
- 64" = 7 1/2" - 7 3/4"
- 66" = 7 1/2" - 7 3/4"
Longbow Brace Height
- 60" = 7"
- 62” = 7” – 7 1/4”
- 64” = 7” – 7 1/2"
- 66” = 7” – 7 1/2"
Question 15: “How do I pay for my custom Blacktail bow?”
Answer: We require a minimum $250 deposit in order to secure your position on the custom bow Orders List. Bows are built in the order deposits are received. Some customers wait to pay their balance just before their bow is shipped. Others prefer to send incremental checks during the waiting period to minimize or eliminate a large balance due when their bow is ready to ship. Still others prefer to pay in full at the time of order. We are flexible and happy to accommodate whatever payment schedule is most convenient for our customers. We only ask that the balance due is paid in full, just prior to shipping. Checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, wire transfers (maximum 2) are all acceptable forms of payments.
Question 16: “Can I have my Blacktail bow refinished?”
Answer: The standard refinish fee is ($200 for Satin, $400 for High Gloss) plus shipping and handling. each addititional set of limbs, $100 for Satin, $200 for High Gloss. Allow 4-6 weeks for refinish service. When sending your bow in for refinishing, please send ONLY the riser and both sets of limbs, packaged in a standard cardboard box. Do not send bolts, bezels, string, limb sleeves, cases, etc.
Question 17: “I think I've twisted a limb...can it be straightened?”
Answer: The good news is, in most cases, a twisted limb is not a serious problem and is easily corrected. Blackail limbs are very resilient and a slightly twisted limb does not harm them or shorten the lifespan in anyway. They just need to be re-centered or straightened if this happens. Every traditional archer should become familiar with this simple fix. Please reference the Twisted Limb Guide for an easy step-by-step process to reset your limb. Click here to download the Twisted Limb Guide.
Limbs do not become twisted by themselves. It most often occurs while stringing or unstringing the bow incorrectly. By pulling the riser in a slight twist motion (instead of straight up) the resulting torque can cause a slight twist in the limb. By learning proper stringing technique, you can avoid limb twist from occurring.
To correct the problem, simply twist the limb by hand in the opposite direction until the limb is level or straight. Do this with the bow strung and the limb tips facing away from your face. When twisting the limb you will have to “over-twist” moderately, as the natural spring action of the limb will pull the limb back the other direction. You can check your progress using the long string groove in the belly of the limb to verify alignment. Partially draw the bow until the string lifts out of the groove. When slowly letting down the string, it needs to fall centered in the bottom of the groove. Keep twisting/adjusting the limb until you have the string falling exactly centered in the bottom of the groove. Once you have the string falling back to the bottom of the groove you may resume shooting.
By following the step-by-step visual guide, you will be able to solve this issue within a matter of minutes.
Question 18: “What's the best way to clean and care for my hand-engraved, solid brass limb bolts and bezels?”
Answer: We recommend BRASSO Metal Polish as a quick and easy way to remove tarnish and restore the brilliance of your brass limb bolts and bezels. This product is widely available at most hardware stores. Just remove your limb bolts and bezels from the bow, take a small dab of the metal polish on a clean rag and wipe onto the surface of the brass. The tarnish will be rubbed off the brass and onto the rag. Within seconds your bolts/bezels will look brand new. Be sure to remove all of the polish material from the recessed engraving for best results.
Question 19: “What's the standard tiller measurement for 'split finger' vs. '3-under' shooting styles?”
Answer: Although the industry standard is broader, our standard range for 'split-finger' tiller is 1/8"-3/8" (typical target is 3/16"). Our standard range for '3-under' tiller is 0"-1/8" (typical target is 1/16"). This variance accommodates some latitude for achieving the targeted draw weight. By design, the lower limb is built slightly stiffer than the upper limb.
