new string length

[twosheds]

I have a recurve that my wife is going to start shooting.  I would like to replace the string but there is no writing on the bow to determine string length. It does have the old string on it.  Do I use the length of the old string or has it stretched to long and if so where do I measure from, end to end, or just the begining of the loop? thanks

[Bird Dog]

Use the length of the old string from end to end.

[twosheds]

Thanks birddog.

[Over&Under]

Use a flexible tape measure or piece of string and, after unstringing the bow, measure along the bow on the back (part that faces away when shooting) and find the measurement from nock to nock, then subtract 4 inches, and you have your new string length.  

That gives you a good starting point and you can twist the string a few turns to fine tune brace height.

Some of the more experienced trad guys on here can probably clear up any problems with what I just said.

jake

[Pete W]

There is no better measurement than setting the brace height, and then  removing and measuring the old string.
Pete

[Over&Under]

Or you could just do what pete w said  

[mooseman76]

Where exactly do you measure the string from?  bottom of loops?  I find myself very confused on this    :confused: