Thanks for the Push Pull Stringing Method

[Ssamac]

Thanks to all who sent instructions on the push pull method for stringing a longbow. Just got a new one, btw. Trying again.

So I did the step thru to string it first, push pull to unstring. After some success, tried push pull to very slowly and carefull to string the bow. It worked - not bad at all.

Opens a whole new vista for me. Now to get better groups with this stick!!

Sam
         

[SCATTERSHOT]

Just be sure to look away from the tip as you string it. It only takes one slip.

Good luck!

[Tom]

Stringers still work best-I have 4 eyes and don't think 2 will work as well.

[Bowferd]

Sam,
I always use a stringer, but sure as heck, someday I'll walk into the woods without it.
Never heard of a stringer until getting back into trad 10 or so years ago.
When I was a youngster and into my early twenties we always used the push pull method.

[Jim now in Kentucky]

If you do the push-pull method properly, it is physically impossible for the bow to hit you if it slips out of  your hand. Something very unlikely in it self.

The bow tip is at arm's length throughout the process and the head is forward, out of line of the limb's stroke if it gets away.

Folks who say they were hit by the limb while using the push-pull method, well, let's just say they're never going to win any 3D shoots either.

[GREASEMAN]

I agree with Scattershot Be carefull

[Afraid a snake]

A few years ago at Compton, I saw a well known bowyer stringing a bow for me to try, using this method.The string slipped off and the limb tip smacked him in the forehead.He got a big goose egg and a bruised ego ,but it could have been much worse.He said he had used this method for years and that was the first time he had that happen.I have used a stringer ever since.

[Jim now in Kentucky]

Afraid a. I will be so bold as to say the guy was a fool. He may make the best bow in the world, but he clearly doesn't know the push-pull method.

As I said above, the head should be out of the line of fire. Great Scot, this isn't rocket science. It's like in karate. The best defense is don't be there when the blow arrives!

[Ssamac]

If you saw the new Robin Hood, Maid Marian used the push pull method too. Strong lady.

SAm

[SpencerL]

I had used the Push-Pull method on an old 45 lb. recurve, but after using a stringer will never again. It's just too easy.

[Bowferd]

Maid Marian's a looker too. She must have practiced an hour at home every night for a month. She's quicker than I am at it.
I'd bet in reality they had her stringing a 20#'r.
Also really believe that if you use that method consistently there would be the chance of twisting your limbs.
Stringers were invented for multiple reasons.

[Ssamac]

Good to have some alternatives for differnt situations. Don't ever want to miss a chance to shoot because you don't happen to have a stringer. Marian is quite a looker for sure.

sam

[portugeejn]

Just make sure check the stringer before you use it.  I had one break and the tip of the recurve just missed my eye.  Had a great shiner for a while!

RonP

[Ragnarok Forge]

I have a buddy who took 22 stitches to the face doing the push pull on a recurve.  He must have done it thousands of times before. He slipped once and cut the heck out of his face.  It only take one second of carelessness to get bitten.

[James Wrenn]

While I can do it I always use a stringer when one is available.

I think everyone should know how to do it for that one instance when the stringer is not around but the stringer is just too easy not to use it other times.

[Don Stokes]

Never, ever push-pull a recurve! Slip with a longbow, and you might get bopped. Slip with a recurve, and you can get blinded. It has happened.

The only time I don't use a stringer is while hunting with a self longbow, which shouldn't be left strung for extended periods.