Proper string length

[dcmeckel]

Is there a proper way to measure string length
or maybe an accepted A.M.O. way to measureit?
When I make a long-bow,I usually run my tape measure along the back,holding it down on the limbs and riser.Then when I twist up the string it seems that the strings are allways too long!
Am I measuring wrong according to A.M.O.?

[formerbutcher]

I think you should measure from the belly of the bow, make the string about 3" shorter than the bow for long bows and about 4" for a recurve.or you can do like i do is make a string with one loop, on the other end use a bowyers knot or timber hitch for you'r loop, that way you can make the sting whatever length you want, by adjusting the knot.

Works for me  

[Loren Holland]

remember that unless you buy pre-stressed sting, I use b-50, that you're gonna get an inch or so of stretch, so be prepared to redo one end once you shoot it a bit, or wieght the plys before you twist it...i twist with the one loop knocked until the string is one hand width from the other knock. i guestimate a little extra or less so the the end of my second loop ends up at the hands width. that has always given me about 6 3/4 -7 1/4" brace height on a 68" bow when tillered to my meager ability.

[don s]

you don't always have to redo one end of your string. when your string stretches, just twist it up a bit more. after you've built a few strings. you get used to building them at the perfect length. taking into consideration that they will stretch.
                 don