Where to get new strings?

[Big John]

Hi - I changed the string on my Chris Boyton longbow at the weekend with a spare that Chris gave me when I got the bow a few years back. It stretched nicely (even slapping my wrist a bit) but I am not that happy with it and want to get a higher quality string (made). Recommendations on where to go, what to ask for and how to determine correct length please? Thank you.

[robtattoo]

KG Archery do some lovely Longbow strings. Give 'em a call

[stever]

Try Custom Built at Guisborough, the lad there is ace. He should be able to help

[Big John]

Thanks guys.

[Toxopholist]

Hi
Why not have a go at making your own? A single loop Flemish twist string only takes around 20 minutes and all you need is a serving jig. No string making jig is required.

Are you sure there's anything wrong with your current string? It's normal for them to stretch when first used as the twists bed in. This sack should then be taken up at the knotted end. Sometimes it is just the knot that slips a litlle also.

[Yew Selfbow]

John .....as Toxo said.. have a go at at making your own it's not as difficult as it looks. There's a great little booklet (available from Quicks..spit) called Laying in the Flemish twist. It's a first class little (how to) booklet.

..give it a go...

[TimS]

We have been very please with this lady .... loise@howlimb.fsnet.co.uk <loise@howlimb.fsnet.co.uk>

The latest information I have about her (from our website is as follows).....

LOUSIE HOWIS LIMB - hand made strings. No web site but let her know the strands and length of strings required and she will be happy to make them for you.....
Dacron price @ UK£ 4.00 each. Fast-flight @ UK£ 6.50 each and Dyneema or 8125 @ UK£ 7.00 each
The prices are reduced if ordering in multiples of 2 and above - ie dacron @ UK 3.75, Fast-Flight @ UK£ 6.00 each and Dyeneema or 8125 @ UK£ 6.50 each.
All strings either double looped or open - to send an email to Louise click here.

[Big John]

Thanks Tim and others. Not sure what my current string is - I'll ask its maker but guess dacron. At last year's club longbow shoot I recall a more senior member of the club (who was a great shot with the longbow but has since passed on, RIP), remarking that I should get a better quality string on my bow. Are there limits to using fastflight for example?

[Toxopholist]

You often hear that fastflight etc. is too severe to be used on longbows, but several folk use it at our club and have done so for a few years. I've tried it, but saw no noticable speed increase. We have a chronograph now so I may repeat that experiment and let you know.

Regards.