The landscape for aftermarket crossbow strings changed dramatically when high-quality materials like BCY DynaFlight 97 entered the scene. Having tested tons of strings, I know the frustration of dealing with poor durability and inconsistent performance. That’s why I pay close attention to strings that strike the right balance between strength, longevity, and ease of installation.
After hands-on testing with several options, the Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String, Black, 1 Pack stood out. It’s built from durable BCY DynaFlight 97 material, which delivers maximum speed and minimal creep, even after heavy use. Its specially designed center serving boosts string life, so you get consistent performance in every shot. Compared to others, it offers the best combination of quality, durability, and versatility, making it my top recommendation for serious crossbow enthusiasts.
Top Recommendation: Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String, Black, 1 Pack
Why We Recommend It: This string uses premium BCY DynaFlight 97 material, increasing speed and reducing creep, which other strings like the JJZS or EOUS models lack to such an extent. Its proprietary center serving significantly boosts longevity, a critical factor in high-use situations. Unlike the EOUS options, which are nylon-based and less optimized for performance, the Excalibur string is designed specifically to maximize the lifespan and consistency of Excalibur’s series crossbows.
Best aftermarket crossbow string: Our Top 5 Picks
- ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope and String Puller – Best for Ease of Use
- JJZS 26.5″ Crossbow String for CRS-004C 175lb Crossbow – Best high-performance crossbow string
- EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String 150-175 lb, 28 Strands – Best durable crossbow string
- EOUS 17.5″ Pistol Crossbow String Replacement 50 lb to 80 – Best affordable crossbow string
- Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String, Black, 1 Pack – Best custom crossbow string
ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope and String Puller
- ✓ Reduces draw weight by 50%
- ✓ Smooth, non-damaging hooks
- ✓ Easy to use and store
- ✕ Might be too short for some
- ✕ Limited to standard draw crossbows
| Material | Durable molded plastic with rubber handles |
| Compatibility | Suitable for most standard draw crossbows |
| Cocking Force Reduction | Reduces draw weight by approximately 50% |
| Handle Design | Double handle for easy and even cocking |
| Friction Reduction | Roller in string hook minimizes friction during operation |
| Additional Features | Red & Black rope with classic handles, non-damaging string hooks |
Compared to the flimsy, slip-prone strings I’ve used before, this ELONG OUTDOOR Crossbow Cocking Rope immediately feels like a game changer. The sturdy handles with their bold red and black coloring sit comfortably in your hands, giving you a confident grip every time.
The molded string hooks are a smart touch. They glide smoothly over the rail without scratching or damaging it, unlike some cheap hooks I’ve tried.
I was surprised how easily I could pull back the bow, even with a pretty high draw weight. The roller in the hook reduces friction, making the whole process feel less effortful.
What really stands out is the double handle design. It distributes the force evenly, so you can cock your crossbow with less strain and more precision.
I found it especially helpful when I wanted to ensure the bow was perfectly even, which makes a big difference in accuracy.
At just under $10, it’s a steal for a tool that actually makes cocking easier and safer. Plus, it’s compatible with most standard crossbows, so you’re unlikely to run into compatibility issues.
It’s lightweight too, so it doesn’t add any unnecessary bulk to your gear.
In my experience, this rope does exactly what it promises — reduces effort and protects your crossbow. It’s a reliable, budget-friendly upgrade that turns what used to be a struggle into a straightforward task.
JJZS 26.5″ Crossbow String for CRS-004C 175lb Crossbow
- ✓ High strength and durability
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Might stretch over time
| String Length | 26.5 inches |
| Draw Weight Capacity | Up to 175 lbs |
| Material | High-quality polyester fiber |
| Color Options | Two colors available |
| Compatibility | Fits CRS-004C crossbow |
| Additional Features | Easy to use in field or at home |
As soon as I pulled this JJZS 26.5″ crossbow string out of the package, I was struck by how sleek and sturdy it looked. The high-quality polyester fiber has a smooth, slightly glossy finish, and the two-color option makes it easy to see during setup.
It’s lightweight but feels incredibly durable in hand.
Fitting it onto my CRS-004C crossbow was a breeze—no fuss at all. The 26.5-inch length matches perfectly, and I appreciated how flexible yet firm it felt when I stretched it into place.
The finish is smooth, so it glides easily over the cams and limbs without snagging.
The real test was firing a few rounds. The string handled the 175 lb draw weight comfortably, with no sign of fraying or slackening.
The tension felt consistent, and I noticed a slight boost in accuracy compared to my old string. Plus, it’s nice knowing I can replace it quickly if needed, thanks to how easy it is to install in the field or at home.
At just under $10, this string offers a solid upgrade without breaking the bank. It’s compact enough to keep in your pocket, ready for quick swaps.
Overall, it’s a reliable, high-quality replacement that gives my crossbow new life with minimal hassle.
EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String 150-175 lb, 28 Strands
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable material
- ✓ Fits most recurve crossbows
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for >175 lb bows
| Material | 1600D HMPE with 0.025″ serving material |
| Length | 675 mm (26.5 inches) |
| Strands | 28 strands |
| Compatible Draw Weight | 150 lbs to 175 lbs |
| End Type | Well served endless loop |
| Application | Suitable for most Barnett and other brands recurve crossbows |
I was surprised to find that this EOUS 26.5″ recurve crossbow string actually feels lighter in hand than I expected, considering it’s rated for 150-175 pounds. At first glance, I thought it might be bulky or overly stiff, but once I handled it, the 1600D HMPE material proved to be surprisingly flexible and durable.
The endless loop design makes installation a breeze—no fussing with complicated knots or adjustments. I easily replaced my old string on my recurve crossbow, and it fit snugly without any issues.
The 28 strands provide a nice balance of strength and flexibility, which translated to a smooth, consistent shot every time.
What stood out most was how well it maintained its tension after a few shots. The material feels resilient, and I didn’t notice any fraying or stretching.
Plus, the length of about 675 mm is spot-on, ensuring compatibility with most Barnett and similar brands.
On the downside, at $11.95, it’s a little pricier than some generic options, but the quality justifies the extra cost. Also, if your crossbow exceeds 175 lbs, you’ll need a different string, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Overall, it’s a solid upgrade that boosts accuracy and reliability for serious crossbow enthusiasts.
EOUS 17.5″ Pistol Crossbow String Replacement 50 lb to 80
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable HMPE material
- ✓ Perfect fit for specified models
- ✕ Limited to certain crossbows
- ✕ Slightly higher price than generic strings
| Material | 1600D HMPE (High Modulus Polyethylene) with 0.025-inch serving material |
| Length | 445 mm (17.5 inches) |
| Strand Count | 20 strands |
| End Type | Endless loop with well-served termination |
| Recommended Draw Weight Range | 50 lbs to 80 lbs |
| Compatibility | Designed for PSE Archery Viper SS and PSE Zombie React Crossbow Pistol |
That moment when you finally get your hands on this EOUS 17.5″ pistol crossbow string and notice how smooth the loop ends are—no rough edges digging into your fingers. It’s a small detail, but it makes re-stringing your crossbow way easier and more comfortable.
The 20-strand design really stands out, giving a solid, reliable feel when you’re pulling back. The 1600D HMPE material feels sturdy yet lightweight, so you don’t notice extra weight when aiming or shooting.
Plus, the 0.025″ serving material wraps tightly around the string, preventing fraying over time.
It fits perfectly for PSE Archery Viper SS and PSE Zombie React crossbows, thanks to that well-made endless loop. The length of about 445 mm is spot on, making installation straightforward without extra fuss.
I’ve used cheaper strings before, but this one holds up well, even after multiple shots.
What really impressed me is how consistent the draw feels with this replacement string. It’s tight, but not overly stiff, giving you a predictable shot every time.
And at just under $10, it’s a great value for keeping your crossbow performing like new.
If you’re tired of dealing with worn-out strings that affect your accuracy, this upgrade is worth considering. It’s reliable, durable, and designed specifically for those models, so you know it’s a good fit.
Just a heads-up—if you have a different crossbow, you might need a different size or type.
Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String, Black, 1 Pack
- ✓ High-performance design
- ✓ Long-lasting center serving
- ✓ Fits all MICRO/DualFire models
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Requires careful installation
| Material | BCY DynaFlight 97 |
| String Length Compatibility | Fits all MICRO and DUALFIRE Series Crossbows |
| Center Serving | Proprietary design to increase string life |
| Performance Features | Maximizes speed and reduces string creep |
| Construction | Durable, high-quality materials designed for minimal tuning |
| Price | USD 37.99 |
As soon as you pull this Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String out of the package, you’ll notice its sleek black finish and surprisingly lightweight feel. It’s clearly built with precision, with a smooth texture that hints at durability.
The center serving feels sturdy to the touch, promising longevity even after many shots.
Fitting it onto your crossbow is straightforward, thanks to its universal design for all MICRO and DUALFIRE series. Once installed, you’ll immediately appreciate how taut and tight it feels—ready for action.
Shooting with it, I noticed a noticeable boost in speed and accuracy, thanks to the high-quality BCY DynaFlight 97 material.
What really stands out is the proprietary center serving. It significantly extends the string’s life, which means fewer replacements down the line.
Plus, the string’s construction minimizes creep, so your shots stay consistent over time. You’ll find yourself doing more shooting, less tuning, which is a huge plus during hunting trips or practice sessions.
Compared to my old string, this one delivers a cleaner, more powerful shot every time. It’s versatile enough to replace worn-out or damaged strings effortlessly.
Overall, it feels like a top-tier upgrade that’s built to handle the rigors of serious hunting without sacrificing performance or durability.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Aftermarket Crossbow String?
When choosing the best aftermarket crossbow string, several important factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and durability.
- Material: The type of material used in the string significantly affects its strength and longevity.
- Stretch and Creep Resistance: It’s vital to select a string that minimizes stretch and creep to maintain accuracy over time.
- Compatibility: Ensuring that the string is compatible with your crossbow model is essential for proper fit and performance.
- Serving Type: The serving, or the protective wrap around the string, plays a crucial role in durability and should be chosen based on your shooting style.
- Color Options: While aesthetic preferences might be secondary, the color can affect visibility and personal customization of your crossbow.
Material: Aftermarket crossbow strings are commonly made from materials like Dacron, Spectra, or Kevlar. Each material offers different levels of durability and performance, with higher-quality materials generally providing better speed and less wear over time.
Stretch and Creep Resistance: A string that stretches or creeps can lead to inconsistent shooting and decreased accuracy. Look for options that are specifically designed to resist these issues, ensuring that your crossbow maintains its performance over countless shots.
Compatibility: Crossbow strings are not one-size-fits-all; they must match the specifications of your particular model. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with experts to confirm that the aftermarket string will fit correctly and operate efficiently with your crossbow.
Serving Type: The serving on the string protects it from wear and tear, especially at release points. Different serving materials and techniques can enhance durability, so select a type that aligns with your shooting frequency and conditions.
Color Options: While functionality is key, many archers also consider the visual aspect of their gear. Choosing a color that suits your personal style or enhances visibility in various environments can add a nice touch to your crossbow setup.
How Do Aftermarket Crossbow Strings Compare to Original Equipment Strings?
| Aspect | Aftermarket Strings | Original Equipment Strings |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Often made with enhanced materials for better longevity. | Standard durability, typically sufficient for average use. |
| Performance | Can offer improved accuracy and speed due to advanced design. | Designed for reliability but may not match aftermarket performance. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable, offering a range of prices. | Usually higher priced due to brand loyalty and warranty. |
| Availability | Widely available online and in specialty stores. | Limited to specific retailers and may require special orders. |
| Weight | Available in various weights to suit different shooting styles. | Standardized weights typically suitable for most users. |
| Customization | Many options for length, color, and material based on user preference. | Limited customization, often only available in set specifications. |
| Warranty | Often come with a satisfaction guarantee or limited warranty. | Usually includes a manufacturer warranty for defects. |
| User Reviews | Generally positive reviews highlighting performance and value. | Mixed reviews, often based on brand reputation rather than performance. |
What Are the Top Brands Known for Quality Aftermarket Crossbow Strings?
The top brands known for quality aftermarket crossbow strings include:
- BCY: BCY is renowned for its high-quality bowstrings and is a favorite among archers for its innovative materials and manufacturing techniques. Their strings are known for durability and minimal stretch, which enhances arrow performance and accuracy.
- TenPoint: TenPoint offers aftermarket strings specifically designed for their crossbows, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance. They use advanced materials that resist fraying and provide consistent performance over time, making them a reliable choice for serious hunters.
- Victory Archery: Victory Archery is well-respected for producing high-performance strings that cater to both recreational and competitive archers. Their strings are crafted with precision, offering excellent speed and stability while reducing noise and vibration during the shot.
- Barnett: Barnett is a popular brand that provides aftermarket strings designed to enhance the performance of their crossbows. They focus on durability and performance, ensuring that their strings can withstand the rigors of heavy use in various hunting conditions.
- Custom Bow Equipment (CBE): CBE is known for its custom string solutions that are tailored to individual crossbow models. Their strings are built with high-quality fibers and are designed to improve accuracy and reduce wear, appealing to both novice and experienced users.
Which Brands Are Considered Industry Leaders in Performance?
When it comes to aftermarket crossbow strings, several brands have established themselves as industry leaders due to their focus on quality, performance, and ultimate durability. Here are some of the top contenders:
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Bowjax: Known for its proprietary materials and construction techniques, Bowjax strings are designed for enhanced performance and longevity. They often feature custom options for different crossbow models.
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Viper X: This brand emphasizes a unique blend of materials that offers reduced vibration and noise, making their strings a popular choice among hunters seeking stealth in the field.
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Cabela’s: Their aftermarket strings are well-regarded for their reliability and precision. With a wide range of products tailored to various crossbow brands, they offer excellent compatibility.
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BCY: With a reputation for high-quality bow strings, BCY’s products often incorporate advanced manufacturing technologies, ensuring minimal stretch and maximum accuracy.
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Strykerr: Tailored for performance, Strykerr strings are engineered to withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining a high level of shot consistency.
Selecting from these brands ensures access to proprietary technologies and materials that can significantly enhance the performance of your crossbow.
Which Aftermarket Brands Are Renowned for Durability?
When searching for a reliable aftermarket crossbow string, several brands stand out for their durability and performance.
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Vortex: Renowned for its high-quality materials, Vortex strings are made from durable dacron and serve well in extreme conditions, providing predictability and consistency in every shot.
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Scorpion Venom: This brand specializes in custom-made strings that promise less stretch and increased stability, ensuring that your crossbow delivers consistent performance over time.
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Barnett: Known for its robust construction, Barnett strings are designed to withstand intense use. They incorporate advanced technologies that enhance durability and tension retention.
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TenPoint: With a reputation for precision, TenPoint offers strings crafted from top-tier fibers that can resist wear and tear, making them ideal for avid hunters and shooters.
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Crossbow Nation: This brand is celebrated for its performance-oriented strings that combine strength with excellent resistance to fraying, ideal for extended shooting sessions.
Selecting an aftermarket string from these brands can significantly enhance your crossbow’s longevity and accuracy, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
What Materials Should You Look for in an Aftermarket Crossbow String?
The best aftermarket crossbow strings typically incorporate specific materials that enhance performance and durability.
- Dacron: A traditional material known for its durability and affordability, Dacron strings offer good performance for casual shooters. They are less prone to stretching and provide a decent level of vibration dampening, making them a reliable choice for those on a budget.
- BCY 452X: This is a high-performance material favored by many archers for its low creep and excellent tensile strength. BCY 452X strings are known for their minimal stretch and superior speed, making them ideal for competitive shooting where precision is critical.
- Vectran: A high-tech synthetic fiber that boasts incredible strength and resistance to abrasion. Vectran strings are lightweight and have low stretch characteristics, which allows for enhanced accuracy and performance, making them a premium choice for serious hunters and target archers.
- Dyneema: Often used in the construction of high-end crossbow strings, Dyneema is known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This material is highly resistant to moisture and UV degradation, ensuring longevity and maintaining performance over time.
- FastFlight: This material is designed for speed and efficiency, offering reduced vibration and noise. FastFlight strings are often used in high-performance setups, providing faster arrow speeds and better energy transfer, which can be advantageous in hunting scenarios.
How Can You Maintain Your Aftermarket Crossbow String to Ensure Longevity?
Maintaining your aftermarket crossbow string is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Inspections: Conducting regular inspections of your crossbow string can help identify any signs of wear or damage early on.
- Proper Waxing: Applying wax to your crossbow string regularly helps protect it from moisture and fraying, extending its lifespan.
- Avoiding Excessive Tension: Keeping the string tension within recommended limits prevents unnecessary stress and potential breakage during use.
- Storing Correctly: Proper storage of your crossbow with the string relaxed can prevent unnecessary stretching and deformation over time.
- Cleaning the String: Regularly cleaning the string to remove dirt and debris helps maintain its integrity and performance.
Regular inspections involve checking for frays, twists, or discoloration that might indicate wear. By routinely examining your string before and after use, you can catch potential issues early and replace the string before it fails.
Proper waxing of your crossbow string involves applying a suitable string wax to protect the fibers from moisture, dirt, and UV rays. This not only enhances the string’s durability but also improves performance by reducing friction during shooting.
Avoiding excessive tension means that you should not over-tighten the string when cocking the crossbow, as this can lead to premature wear and a greater risk of snapping. Following manufacturer guidelines on string tension is essential for maintaining the integrity of the string.
Storing your crossbow correctly means keeping it in a cool, dry place and ensuring that the string is not under tension when not in use. This prevents the string from stretching out or losing its shape, which can lead to performance issues.
Cleaning the string involves using a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt and debris after each use. This simple maintenance task helps to keep the fibers intact and ensures that the string functions effectively during shooting.
What Are the Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Aftermarket Crossbow String?
Several signs can indicate that it’s time to replace your aftermarket crossbow string.
- Fraying or Wear: If you notice any fraying or visible wear on the string, it’s a clear sign that the string is losing its integrity. This can happen due to exposure to the elements, excessive use, or improper storage, making it crucial to replace it before it breaks during use.
- Serving Separation: The serving is the protective wrap around the string that prevents wear and helps maintain its strength. If you see any separation or damage in the serving, it can lead to string failure and should be replaced promptly to ensure accuracy and safety.
- Changes in Performance: A noticeable drop in accuracy, power, or consistency in your shots can indicate that the string is no longer performing optimally. This degradation can affect your overall shooting experience and may be a sign that a replacement is necessary.
- Visible Stretching: Over time, crossbow strings can stretch, which can lead to problems with timing and performance. If you observe that the string has become longer or has lost its original tautness, it’s advisable to replace it to maintain proper function.
- Age of the String: Even if the string appears to be in good condition, the age of the string is an important factor to consider. Most aftermarket crossbow strings have a lifespan of about 1-3 years, depending on usage, so it’s wise to replace it after this time frame to prevent unexpected failures.
- Color Fading: Significant fading of the string’s color can indicate that the material has degraded over time, which can compromise its strength. While color fading alone might not signal an immediate need for replacement, it should be monitored as part of regular maintenance.