Advantage of 14-strand vs 16-strand string in B50?

[Tall Paul]

Hello all,

All I've ever used are 16-strand strings made of B-50 Dacron.  But now I've got a new set of lighter limbs for my recurve that could take 14-strand.

I'm not interested in any other string material.

My question: Why not use a 16-strand?  Is a 14-strand supposed to be quieter?

Thanks, Paul

[Ifrit617]

Less mass=slightly greater arrow speed

Jon

[David Mitchell]

Well, no reason not to if that's what floats your boat!  But on the other hand one might ask, Why not use a 14 strand?  I just made one for my 50# longbow yesterday--14 is plenty and is what I make for all my bows up to 55#.  Nocks fit it just right, it is just a bit lighter weight as well but probably not enough to matter.

[Tall Paul]

Thanks for the responses guys.

I've dropped down to 51# @ 31.5", so 14 strands is plenty.  I've got a couple 16-strand strings, but I thought if a 14 might be quieter, I'd give 'er a try.

[Red Beastmaster]

Your snap on nocks will fit better on a 14 strand.

[Tall Paul]

I guess this is more of a theoretical question than anything.

I'm going to Bare Shaft tune pretty soon, and I don't want to do it again if I change strings.

[Tall Paul]

Nock fit is not a concern, as I can adjust the serving to get the right fit.

[Orion]

I doubt you'll notice much difference.  Either will work just fine, though 16 strands is more than needed.

[Tall Paul]

I've noticed with the lighter limbs that it takes longer for a new string to stretch out.

[SCATTERSHOT]

I normally shoot a.14.strand string on my50# bows. I just like  that diameter, even though12 is adequate.

Tonight, just.for the heck of.it, I twisted up an 18 strand, just to see what the difference might be. I may be able to shoot tomorrow, and I'll let you know

[SCATTERSHOT]

Well, I couldn't tell much difference, I still shot lousy, but my arrows were really tight on the string, with the narrowest serving I could find in my stash. I re-served it, using 8125 bowstring material, and it's a great fit now.