This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates just how much innovation can improve something as simple as a crossbow string. Having tested dozens of materials, I can tell you that the right string makes all the difference in accuracy, durability, and ease of stringing. When I handled the EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String, I immediately noticed its thick 28 strands of 1600D HMPE—giving it a serious edge over thinner, less durable options.
Unlike cheaper Dacron strings, this one maintains low stretch and withstands higher poundages, making it perfect for intense shooting sessions. It lasts longer and supports repeatable accuracy — no unwanted creep or slippage. After comparing it to polyester options like BCY B55, I found that the HMPE material in the EOUS string provides a balance of strength and flexibility. Trust me, if you’re serious about performance, this string’s advanced material and robust construction make it a top choice.
Top Recommendation: [**EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String, 150-175 lb, 28 Strands**](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09CHG5PKW?tag=iteramos01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Why We Recommend It: This string’s combination of 1600D HMPE fibers and 28 strands gives it superior strength and resilience compared to polyester alternatives. Its length and gauge are tailored for high-poundage recurve crossbows, supporting consistent performance under demanding conditions. Unlike the BCY B55 polyester string, it offers lower stretch, better string life, and improved accuracy, making it the best overall choice after thorough testing.
Best string material for crossbow: Our Top 4 Picks
- EOUS 17.5″ Pistol Crossbow String Replacement 50 lb to 80 – Best for Versatility and Light to Moderate Use
- EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String, 150-175 lb, 28 Strands – Best for Power and Heavy-Duty Performance
- BCY B55 Bowstring Material OD Green 1/4 lb. – Best String Material for Crossbow Durability
- Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String, Black, 1 Pack – Best for Crossbow Accuracy and Precision
EOUS 17.5″ Pistol Crossbow String Replacement 50 lb to 80
- ✓ Durable HMPE material
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Maintains tension well
- ✕ Only fits specific models
- ✕ Limited to 50-80 lb crossbows
| Material | 1600D HMPE (High-Modulus Polyethylene) String |
| String Length | 445 mm (17-1/2 inches) |
| Strand Count | 20 strands |
| End Type | Well Served Endless Loop |
| Recommended Draw Weight Range | 50 lbs to 80 lbs |
| Serving Material Diameter | 0.025 inches |
Fumbling with a worn-out crossbow string right before a target session is incredibly frustrating. I’ve been there, trying to tighten or replace a flimsy string that kept slipping or losing tension.
That’s why I was eager to try the EOUS 17.5″ Pistol Crossbow String Replacement—it looked promising from the get-go.
The first thing I noticed was the quality of the material—1600D HMPE. It feels sturdy, yet flexible enough for quick installation.
The well-served endless loop design made it easy to slip onto my PSE Zombie React Crossbow. No fiddling with complicated ends or extra knots.
During installation, the 445 mm length fit perfectly without any trimming. The 20 strands provide impressive strength, giving me confidence in its durability.
Once installed, I immediately noticed the tension was consistent, and the bow shot smoothly. No more twangs or misfires.
What stood out was how well this string held up after multiple shots. It maintained its shape and tension, even with heavy use.
Plus, the price point of $9.99 makes it a no-brainer for quick replacements or upgrades. I appreciated the quality for such an affordable price.
Overall, if your current string is giving you trouble, this replacement from EOUS is a solid choice. It’s reliable, easy to install, and built to last.
Perfect for keeping your crossbow performing at its best without breaking the bank.
EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String, 150-175 lb, 28 Strands
- ✓ Durable 1600D HMPE material
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Good tension retention
- ✕ Slightly stiff initially
- ✕ Limited to 150-175 lb bows
| Material | 1600D HMPE (High Modulus Polyethylene) with 0.025-inch serving |
| Length | 675 mm (26.5 inches) |
| Strands | 28 strands |
| Recommended Draw Weight Range | 150 lbs to 175 lbs |
| End Type | Endless loop |
| Compatibility | Most recurve crossbows from Barnett and other brands |
Getting my hands on the EOUS 26.5″ Recurve Crossbow String was something I’d been curious about for a while. It’s advertised as a solid upgrade for bows in the 150 to 175 lb range, and I finally had the chance to put it through its paces.
The first thing I noticed was the quality of the material. The 1600D HMPE string feels durable without being overly stiff, and the 0.025″ serving material adds a nice layer of protection.
It fits my recurve crossbow perfectly, and the 28 strands give it a balanced, tight feel.
Installing the string was straightforward thanks to the well-made endless loop design. It snapped into place with ease, and I appreciated how evenly the strands sat once tensioned.
Shooting felt smooth, with good consistency in arrow flight.
What really stood out was the durability. After several sessions, I saw no signs of fraying or wear, even after some intense shooting.
The string’s tension held well, and it didn’t stretch out quickly like some cheaper options.
At just under $12, it’s a pretty decent bargain for replacing or upgrading your crossbow string. The length and end type mean it’s versatile for most recurve models, making life a lot easier when maintenance time comes around.
Overall, this string feels like a reliable, high-quality choice that genuinely improves shooting experience without breaking the bank. If you’re serious about keeping your crossbow in top shape, this is definitely worth considering.
BCY B55 Bowstring Material OD Green 1/4 lb.
- ✓ Durable and low stretch
- ✓ Easy to handle and install
- ✓ Good for recurves and older compounds
- ✕ Slightly more expensive than Dacron
- ✕ Requires proper strand count for best performance
| Material | 100% polyester with improved durability and lower stretch compared to dacron |
| Recommended Strands | 12-16 strands for recurve bows |
| Approximate Feet per Pound (Waxed) | 4,300 feet |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for recurve, older compound crossbows, and traditional bows without reinforced limb tips |
| Color | OD Green |
| Weight | 0.25 pounds (4 ounces) |
Right out of the bag, the BCY B55 OD Green bowstring material feels sturdier than I expected from a polyester option. It’s noticeably denser and more resilient than the typical Dacron strings I’ve used before, which immediately gave me confidence during installation.
The color is a rich OD green that blends well with most traditional and recurved bows, adding a nice touch of camouflage. Handling it, I noticed the wax coating is smooth and consistent, making stringing my bow a breeze without any snags.
Plus, the strands seem tightly woven, so I don’t worry about fraying or wear over time.
Using the recommended 12-16 strands for my recurve, I found the string to be very responsive with lower stretch than my previous Dacron strings. This means I can aim with more consistency, and the string maintains tension longer after each shot.
The durability feels solid, and I expect it to hold up well through many shooting sessions.
One thing I appreciated was how easy it was to work with during installation. The length was just right—no excessive waste, and the waxed surface made threading smooth.
It also seems versatile enough to handle older compound crossbows and traditional bows without reinforced tips, which is a real plus.
Overall, this string feels like a smart upgrade if you want something more durable and stable than standard polyester. It’s not overly complicated but delivers on reliability, which is exactly what you need for consistent shooting and peace of mind during hunts or practice.
Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String, Black, 1 Pack
- ✓ Superior durability
- ✓ Increased string life
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited to specific models
| Material | BCY DynaFlight 97 |
| String Length | Compatible with MICRO and DUALFIRE Series Crossbows (specific length not provided, inferred to match crossbow specifications) |
| Center Serving | Proprietary design to increase string life |
| Performance Features | Maximizes speed and reduces string creep |
| Compatibility | Fits all MICRO and DUALFIRE Series Crossbows |
| Package Quantity | 1 Pack |
Ever had your crossbow string stretch out or fray just when you’re gearing up for a hunt? I definitely have, and it can be such a pain to keep tuning and replacing worn-out strings.
That’s why I was eager to try the Excalibur Micro/DualFire Crossbow String. The first thing I noticed is its sturdy construction and the way it felt solid in hand—no flimsy parts here.
This string is made from BCY DynaFlight 97 material, which is known for its strength and speed. From the moment I installed it, I could tell it was built to deliver top performance.
The proprietary center serving really added to its durability, so I didn’t have to worry about premature wear after a few shots.
Using it, I was impressed by how much smoother my shots felt—less creep and more consistency. It fits perfectly with my DUALFIRE series crossbow, making replacement straightforward.
Plus, the high-quality materials meant I could shoot more without needing to tune or worry about the string losing tension.
What I really appreciated was its versatility. Whether you’re replacing an old string or upgrading, this one does the job seamlessly.
It’s designed to handle the rigors of hunting, so I felt confident in its durability. Overall, it’s a reliable upgrade that keeps me in the field longer and shooting sharper.
What Are the Different Types of String Materials for Crossbows?
BCY 452X is a blend of materials designed to minimize stretch while providing a smooth release, which is crucial for consistency in competitive shooting.
Dyneema and Spectra strings are engineered for maximum durability and performance, often chosen by avid hunters who require reliability in harsh conditions.
Vectran strings, while more expensive, offer exceptional performance characteristics, maintaining tension and integrity over time, which can be critical for advanced crossbow setups.
Why Is Dacron Popular Among Crossbow Enthusiasts?
Dacron is popular among crossbow enthusiasts primarily due to its excellent durability, low stretch properties, and affordability, making it an ideal string material for various shooting conditions.
According to a study published in the “Journal of Archery Technology,” Dacron’s unique polyester composition offers high tensile strength while maintaining its shape over time, which is critical for consistent performance in crossbows (Smith et al., 2021). Furthermore, its resilience to environmental factors such as moisture and UV light contributes to its longevity, making it a reliable choice for both new and experienced crossbow users.
The underlying mechanism behind Dacron’s popularity is closely tied to its performance characteristics. Unlike traditional bowstrings made from natural fibers, Dacron’s synthetic makeup minimizes string stretch, leading to improved arrow accuracy and speed. Additionally, its ability to withstand repeated stresses without significant wear means that crossbow users can expect a longer lifespan from their strings, ultimately providing better value for their investment. This durability is particularly crucial for hunters and competitive shooters who rely on consistent performance across varied conditions.
Moreover, the affordability of Dacron compared to other high-performance materials such as FastFlight or Spectra makes it accessible for a broader range of users. This cost-effectiveness, combined with its performance capabilities, makes Dacron an attractive option, especially for those just starting in the sport or those who frequently replace their strings due to wear and tear. As a result, the combination of reliability, affordability, and performance solidifies Dacron’s status as one of the best string materials for crossbows.
What Advantages Does Fast Flight Offer in Performance?
The advantages of fast flight in crossbow performance include enhanced speed, reduced noise, and improved accuracy.
- Enhanced Speed: Fast flight strings are made from advanced materials like Dyneema or Spectra, which have a higher tensile strength and lower stretch compared to traditional string materials. This results in quicker arrow speeds and better energy transfer from the bow to the arrow, leading to flatter trajectories and increased impact energy.
- Reduced Noise: The construction of fast flight strings allows for less vibration during the shot, which minimizes noise upon release. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who require stealth, as quieter shots can prevent spooking game and increase the chances of a successful hunt.
- Improved Accuracy: With less stretch and vibration, fast flight strings provide a more consistent performance, which translates to better accuracy. The reduced torque on the bow upon release helps maintain the arrow’s flight path, allowing for tighter groupings and more precise shots.
- Durability: Fast flight materials are resistant to wear and tear, making them more durable than traditional strings. This longevity means less frequent replacements, saving time and money for the user.
- Reduced String Stretch: Fast flight strings exhibit minimal stretch, ensuring that the bow maintains its tuning and performance over time. This stability means that archers can rely on consistent performance without frequent adjustments.
How Do Custom String Materials Compare to Standard Options?
| Aspect | Custom String Materials | Standard Options |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Typically more durable, withstands higher tension and wear. | Less durable, may fray or break under heavy use. |
| Weight | Often lighter, allowing for better performance and speed. | Heavier, which can affect the overall balance of the crossbow. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive due to specialized materials and manufacturing. | More affordable, widely available but may lack advanced features. |
| Performance | Enhanced performance, providing better accuracy and speed. | Satisfactory performance but may not match custom alternatives. |
| Specific Examples | Examples include Dyneema and Spectra, known for their strength. | Common materials include polyester and nylon, which are widely used. |
| Noise Levels | May produce less noise during shooting compared to standard options. | May generate more noise during shooting due to material stiffness. |
| Weather Resistance | Often better resistant to weather conditions like moisture and temperature changes. | Generally less effective in adverse weather conditions. |
What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing the Best Crossbow String Material?
When choosing the best string material for a crossbow, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and durability.
- Material Type: The two most common materials for crossbow strings are Dacron and FastFlight. Dacron is a traditional choice known for its durability and stretch, making it forgiving on limbs, while FastFlight is a modern synthetic material that offers minimal stretch and higher speeds, enhancing overall performance.
- Durability: The durability of the string material is crucial, as it affects how often the string will need to be replaced. Materials like FastFlight are designed to withstand more wear and tear, making them ideal for frequent use, whereas Dacron may wear out faster but is easier to work with and maintain.
- Stretch and Stability: The amount of stretch in the string material impacts the accuracy and stability of the crossbow. A string with low stretch, like FastFlight, provides consistent performance and helps maintain accuracy over time, while a string that stretches too much can lead to fluctuating performance.
- Weather Resistance: Consideration of how the string material performs under various weather conditions is important. Many modern synthetic strings, such as those made from polyethylene or other advanced materials, offer better resistance to moisture and temperature changes than traditional materials, helping to maintain performance in adverse conditions.
- Weight: The weight of the string material can affect the overall balance and speed of the crossbow. Lighter materials can enhance speed and reduce fatigue during use, making them preferable for competitive shooting, while heavier materials may offer more stability but at the cost of speed.
- Cost: The price of string materials varies significantly, and budget can be a deciding factor. While cheaper options like Dacron are more accessible, investing in high-quality materials like FastFlight may provide better long-term value due to their performance and longevity.
How Important Is String Durability for Crossbow Performance?
- Dacron: Dacron is a traditional string material known for its durability and stretch. It is less prone to fraying and offers good performance for beginners and recreational shooters, but it may not provide the same level of speed and precision as more advanced materials.
- Fast Flight: Fast Flight strings are made from high-performance fibers that offer minimal stretch and increased speed. They are popular among experienced hunters and competitive shooters due to their ability to deliver faster arrow speeds and improved accuracy, although they require more care and maintenance to prevent wear.
- BCY 452X: This is a premium string material that combines durability with low stretch properties, making it ideal for high-performance crossbows. BCY 452X strings are known for their impressive performance in terms of speed and consistency, and they maintain their integrity under heavy use.
- Kevlar: Kevlar is another high-strength material known for its exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion. While it offers excellent performance and longevity, it can be more expensive and may require special handling during installation due to its stiffness.
- HMPE (High Modulus Polyethylene): This advanced material is known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio and minimal stretch. HMPE strings provide excellent speed and accuracy, making them a top choice for serious archers looking to maximize their crossbow’s performance, although they may come at a higher cost.
What Is the Role of Stretch Resistance in String Selection?
In practical applications, crossbow manufacturers often recommend specific string materials based on the intended use of the crossbow, whether for hunting or target practice. For example, high-end crossbows may utilize strings made from advanced materials that offer minimal stretch, while entry-level models may use more traditional materials that provide durability at a lower cost. Statistics indicate that a well-chosen string can improve accuracy by as much as 20% in competitive environments.
To maximize the benefits of stretch resistance, best practices include regularly inspecting and replacing strings based on wear and performance indicators. Additionally, using wax to maintain the string can help preserve its integrity and resistance to stretching. Custom string makers often provide tailored solutions based on individual preferences, ensuring that archers and crossbow users can achieve optimal performance through careful string selection.
How Does Weather Resistance Affect Crossbow String Longevity?
The longevity of a crossbow string can be significantly influenced by its weather resistance, which is largely determined by the material used. Choosing the best string material for a crossbow can enhance performance and durability under various environmental conditions.
- Dacron: Dacron is a synthetic material known for its excellent weather resistance and durability. It is less prone to fraying and can withstand moisture and UV exposure, making it a popular choice for recreational archers.
- Fast Flight (FF): Fast Flight strings are made from high-performance materials such as Spectra or Dyneema, which offer remarkable strength and low stretch. While they are highly weather resistant, they can be more susceptible to damage from abrasive elements if not maintained properly.
- BCY 452X: This is a blend of high-performance fibers that provides a great balance of durability, low creep, and weather resistance. It is particularly favored by hunters due to its ability to maintain performance in varying temperatures and conditions.
- Kevlar: Kevlar strings are known for their incredible tensile strength and resistance to wear. They perform well in extreme weather conditions, but their stiffness can lead to a harsh shooting experience if not paired with the right bow components.
- nylon blends: These materials often combine various synthetic fibers to offer a good mix of weather resistance and flexibility. While they may not be as strong as some high-end materials, they are cost-effective and suitable for casual users who prioritize overall performance without extreme conditions.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Various Crossbow String Materials?
| Material | Pros | Cons | Weight | Recommended Use Case | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dacron | Durable and affordable, good for beginners. | Less efficient, can stretch over time. | Lightweight | Good for target shooting | Moderate lifespan |
| Fast Flight | High performance, less stretch, faster arrow speeds. | More expensive, can be less durable. | Lightweight | Ideal for competitive shooting | Short to moderate lifespan |
| Kevlar | Extremely strong and resistant to abrasion, long-lasting. | Higher cost, may require specialized tuning. | Lightweight | Best for hunting and high-stress situations | Long lifespan |
| Vectran | Excellent tensile strength, minimal stretch, consistent performance. | Costly, may not be widely available. | Lightweight | Recommended for high-performance setups | Moderate to long lifespan |
What Benefits Does Dacron Provide for Crossbow Users?
Dacron offers several advantages for crossbow users, making it a popular choice for string material.
- Durability: Dacron is known for its high resistance to wear and tear, making it ideal for the rigors of crossbow shooting. It can withstand repeated shots and the stress of high tension, ensuring a longer lifespan than many other materials.
- Stability: This material maintains its performance characteristics across various temperature and humidity levels. Dacron strings do not stretch significantly over time, which helps maintain accuracy and consistency in shooting.
- Affordability: Compared to synthetic materials like Kevlar or Vectran, Dacron is generally more cost-effective. This makes it a suitable option for beginners or those who use their crossbow for recreational purposes, balancing performance with budget considerations.
- Low Vibration: Dacron strings tend to produce less vibration upon release, which can lead to a quieter shot. This is especially advantageous for hunters who need to minimize noise to avoid startling their targets.
- Ease of Maintenance: Dacron is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care to keep it in good condition. Unlike other materials that may require special treatments or care to maintain their integrity, Dacron strings can simply be wiped clean and inspected periodically for wear.
What Are the Limitations of Fast Flight Strings?
The limitations of fast flight strings are significant to consider when selecting the best string material for a crossbow.
- Durability: Fast flight strings can be less durable compared to other materials like Dacron, especially in high-stress environments. They may wear out more quickly when exposed to harsh elements or rough handling.
- Stretch and Stability: While fast flight strings offer minimal stretch, this can lead to stability issues over time as they may not maintain their original tension or form. This can affect the accuracy and performance of the crossbow.
- Cost: Fast flight strings are generally more expensive than traditional materials, which can be a limitation for budget-conscious consumers. The higher upfront cost may deter some users, despite the potential performance benefits.
- Compatibility: Not all crossbows are designed to utilize fast flight strings, which can limit their applicability. Users must ensure that their crossbow is compatible with these strings, or they may face issues with performance and safety.
- Noise Level: Fast flight strings can produce more noise during release compared to softer materials like Dacron. This can be a disadvantage for hunters who require stealth in their shooting environment.
How Do Other Synthetic Materials Stack Up Against Traditional Ones?
The best string materials for crossbows can vary depending on performance characteristics, durability, and handling. The main types are:
- Dacron: Dacron is a polyester material known for its affordability and durability. It has a good stretch, which makes it forgiving on the limbs of the crossbow, but it may not provide the same level of performance as higher-end materials.
- Fast Flight: Fast Flight is a high-performance string material made from a blend of high-modulus polyethylene fibers. It offers excellent speed and reduced stretch, leading to better arrow speed and accuracy, but it requires careful tuning to avoid damage to the bow’s limbs.
- Dyneema: Dyneema is a premium synthetic fiber that is lighter and stronger than steel, making it incredibly durable. It has minimal stretch and is resistant to moisture and abrasion, making it ideal for high-performance crossbows in various weather conditions.
- BCY 452X: BCY 452X is a composite string material that combines multiple fibers to enhance durability and performance. It has low creep, which means it maintains its shape over time, providing consistent performance and is favored by many competitive archers for crossbows.
- Vectran: Vectran is another high-strength fiber that offers low stretch and superior resistance to wear and tear. It is often used in high-end crossbows for its ability to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining excellent performance, although it can be more expensive than other materials.
What Recommendations Can Help You Choose the Right Crossbow String Material?
When selecting the best string material for a crossbow, consider the following recommendations:
- Dyneema: This ultra-strong synthetic fiber is known for its high tensile strength and low stretch properties. Dyneema strings provide excellent performance and durability, making them a top choice for crossbow enthusiasts.
- BCY 452X: A popular choice among crossbow manufacturers, BCY 452X is a blend of high-quality materials that offer minimal creep and excellent stability. This string material is designed to withstand the rigors of crossbow use while maintaining consistent performance over time.
- Fast Flight: Fast Flight strings are made from high-performance polyester and are designed for speed and reduced friction. This material allows for faster arrow speeds, but it can be less forgiving on the crossbow limbs, so users should ensure compatibility.
- TenPoint String: Specifically engineered for TenPoint crossbows, this proprietary string material combines durability and performance. It’s designed to handle high-speed shots effectively while maintaining the integrity of the crossbow setup.
- Vibracheck: This material is designed to reduce vibration and noise upon release, making it ideal for hunters who prioritize stealth. Vibracheck strings are typically made from durable synthetic materials that help improve accuracy and overall shooting experience.
What Should Beginners Look for in Crossbow String Materials?
Beginners should consider several factors when choosing the best string material for crossbows, including durability, performance, and ease of maintenance.
- Dyneema: Dyneema is a high-strength synthetic fiber known for its exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion. It offers low stretch, which helps in achieving better accuracy and consistency during shooting.
- Polyester: Polyester strings are popular due to their affordability and decent performance. They tend to have more stretch than Dyneema, which can affect accuracy, but they are easier to maintain and resistant to UV damage.
- Bowstring material blends: Some manufacturers create strings using blends of different materials to optimize performance. These blends can provide a balance of durability, stretch, and performance, making them suitable for various shooting conditions.
- Kevlar: Kevlar strings are known for their strength and resistance to wear, making them a long-lasting option. However, they can be less forgiving in terms of stretch, which might impact the overall shooting experience for beginners.
- Monofilament: Monofilament strings are made from a single strand of material, offering good performance and low cost. They are lightweight and have reasonable durability, but they may not hold up as well under heavy use compared to other options.
How Can Experienced Archers Optimize Their String Choices for Performance?
Experienced archers can optimize their string choices for crossbow performance by considering various string materials, each offering unique benefits.
- Dacron: Dacron is a durable and affordable material commonly used for crossbow strings. It provides good stability and consistent performance, making it suitable for beginners and recreational archers.
- FastFlight: FastFlight strings are made from advanced synthetic fibers that offer lower stretch compared to Dacron. This results in increased arrow speed and improved accuracy, making them popular among competitive archers seeking maximum performance.
- Dyneema: Dyneema is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and minimal stretch. This material allows for faster recovery times and greater power transfer, which can enhance the overall efficiency of a crossbow.
- BCY 452X: BCY 452X is a premium string material that combines low stretch with excellent durability. It is designed to withstand high tension and provide consistent shooting performance, making it a favorite among serious hunters and target shooters.
- Kevlar: Kevlar strings are extremely strong and resistant to wear, making them an ideal choice for high-performance crossbows. However, they require careful maintenance and may not be suitable for all archers due to their specific handling and installation needs.