Advice on longbow Xmas present

[Aaron]

Hi everyone,
I've been given a composite lemonwood/yew longbow for Xmas (looks like a really nice one- good condition etc). The guy my dad bought it from says it hasnt been used for a few years, and so should be 'broken in' again gradually. I figure I should perhaps keep it strung for a bit each day before I attempt to shoot it - are there any archers out there with any thoughts on how long I should do this before I can start shooting, storage conditions etc? Any contributions of knowledge welcome. Happy New Year Aaron

[Tony]

Nice present Aaron :-D

There are a few people on here that are keen archers so you should get some good advice soon :biggthump

[Rob]

Hi Aaron

You better be planning on Field Archery and not that target stuff :wink: (no offence to any gold shooters out there). :-)

Have you had a bow before? If not, are you ok at stringing it?

I dont think that I would leave it strung for any long periods, but stringing it up and then flexing it (drawing back a few inches and coming down - gradually, and slowly, increasing the length that you are drawing) for a while may help.

If you have not used bows, please remember not to let go of the string without an arrow on board - as it may damage any bow.

Not trying to patronise you or anything - just dont know your experience.

Where abouts you based?

Rob

[acw_akkermans]

Also, as an add-on to the previous post,... If the bow was not varnished, but just oiled or waxed, it may be a good idea to apply warm oil to the wood, as it helps prevent cracking in case the stave has dried out since it was last used. This is only usefull information though, if the bow was not varnished.