About the Author: Austin Murphy is a skilled hunter with a passion for archery. With 17+ years of experience, he possesses extensive knowledge of various archery equipment, including compound bow, recurve bow, and crossbow. His expertise in these accessories allows him to pursue his love for archery while honing his hunting skills with precision and finesse. As participant in NFAA and ASA competitions, Austin own around 8 Recurve Bows, 6 Compound Bows, and 2 Crossbows.
Experienced archers or bowhunters know that there is no specific season to hunt. In most of the zones, September to late November is considered hunting season, yet you have to keep practicing throughout the year to master your skills.
Therefore, without fearing the type of weather, archers practice in all kinds of seasons.
However, we must keep in mind that temperature changes whether too hot or cold, do affect your compound bow.
Despite all Compound Bow features and sturdiness, you’ll still have to take care of your compound bow. Any type of harsh or extreme weather will affect its performance and equipment.
Fortunately, manufacturers of compound bows utilize durable materials that are capable of resisting water and other elements. Still, nothing in the world is completely perfect.
The best thing to make your compound bow last longer is to inspect and maintain it regularly. And I will tell you how to do that.
Why Is It Bad to Leave a Bow in a Hot Car?
As I mentioned earlier any type of extreme temperature affects your compound bow. Hot weather is not that good for your bow. Therefore, when you go hunting after work, then make sure to park your car in the shade.
Just like animals and humans suffer from heat accumulated in the car cabin, a bow left in a locked car sitting in the sun will also endure serious consequences. If you leave your car outside without shade the solar radiation from the sun will be trapped inside the cabin of the car and will lead to accumulated heat.
If your bow is in a closed case inside the car the temperature will be too high. This heat will then affect the strings of your compound bow and it will cause them to lose their elasticity.
Extreme heat will cause your bow to become stretchy and dangerous to shoot. So, in our opinion, you should never leave your bow in a hot car.
You might be interested in: Discover how to protect your compound bow from moisture in our article on Protecting Your Compound Bow from Moisture.
Types of Weather that Affect a Compound Bow
All types of harsh weather can affect your compound bow in one way or another. Heat may affect the heart of the bow while cold weather may affect the performance of the bow. In this article, we’ll discuss in detail the effect of each weather on the bows.
Cold Temperature Effects
Cold weather is not that bad for a compound bow. Most hunters and archers claim that bows handle cold weather better than humans. This is a common myth and the main reason is that a bow is supposed to be stiff and tight.
Both stiffness and tightness of the bow are features that can only be achieved in cold weather. Yet, there are a few drawbacks to the cold weather as too much stiffness will make it a little harder to pull the strings which will put strain on the muscles of the hunter.
Along with that, if the string has become stiff from waxing during cold weather then it might increase its draw weight.
One of the things that I suggest you consider is your clothing. While hunting sessions, wear perfect and warm clothes in winter and try to maintain your body temperature.
Hot Temperature Effects
We all know that regular shooting loosens up the strings. Besides, leaving your bow inside a car on a hot day is not a good idea. The heat inside the car will loosen up the strings.
Some people think that this heat will help to loosen up the strings of a newly stiff bow. But it is not true at all as it can damage your bow in a lot of ways like
- It not only stretches the strings but also affects the joints where the riser meets the limbs and the limbs meet the cams.
- The bow setup has tight fittings to combat the amount of tension present, while at the same time, the cams should be smooth and heat can negatively affect these features of the bow.
- An overstretched string combined with loose fittings can result in a total disaster when comes in contact with extreme heat.
- Draw length is an important part of a compound bow and if an arrow is damaged then it will affect draw length and it will damage the mechanics of the bow.
- Hot weather can also cause condensation on metal parts which may cause corrosion. You should wipe these metal parts down with an anti-corrosive agent such as gun oil or WD-40 after shooting is finished for the day.
Maintenance Considerations
As a compound bow user, you should look after your bow and maintain it properly. There are so many areas in which maintaining your bow is a must. Proper maintenance of your compound bow will help it function properly so it will be able to undergo harsh environments.
Its durability and longevity will be increased as well. Tighten up its loose nuts and keep it away from moist environments.
Raining Temperature Effects
It is important to keep your bow dry. Rain can negatively affect the compound bows as they are the root cause of moisture. Compound bows can be used in rain but it is still important to properly look after your bow once you have used it.
You should try to prevent your compound bow from getting wet because the water has the potential to sneak into various places you don’t want it such as axles, bolts, screws, etc.
There is a high chance of corrosion because of the moisture that was caused by the rain. Every time you go outdoors during the rainy season try to keep your bow in a waterproof covering. Doing it will protect it from water or a moist environment.
What Happens to Your Gear During the Cold Weather?
Cold weather may not affect the strings of the bow but it will still affect the bow’s technical functioning. If the temperature of an area drops by more than 50 degrees Fahrenheit then it may affect the performance of the bow. In this case, you’ll have to adjust the gear of your bow according to your environment.
When arrows are shot in cold weather their flight speed is reduced because of the air resistance. The force and speed of an arrow are determined by the density of air. The air resistance will be high if the density of air is high which in turn will affect the speed of an arrow.
What to Do Before Shooting in the Cold?
Before you go out in the cold for hunting there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- If your muscles are cold you won’t be able to shoot therefore dress in enough layers to keep yourself warm.
- Don’t wear puffed sleeves as they can come in contact with the bowstring when the arrow is released and so they cause hindrance.
- Try wearing a vest under your jacket that will act as an insulator.
Tips to Use in Shooting a Bow in Cold Weather
Before shooting a bow it is better to do an inspection. Bows become stiff during winters and are hard to pull back. Try to wax your strings before using the bow. It is extremely important to dry the bow after it’s used. In winter the bow may get wet and if left unchecked it can get rusted.
You might be interested in: Learn effective aiming techniques for compound bows, with or without sights, in our guide on Aiming a Compound Bow.
Bow Warm-Up
When you are shooting in cold weather it is better to do a bow warm-up. Your hands usually lack the strength or fine motor skills to hold the bow correctly and without tension.
The muscles of your hand need to be trained and strengthened. Using bow warm-up exercises will develop hand strength and it will make it easy to hold the bow.
Adjustments for Bow Performance
If your arrow starts flying differently or erratically or you feel any type of vibration when you shoot the arrow then it means it is time to maintain it and make adjustments. During winter the bows become stiff so try to wax the string before using and in summer the excessive heat can stretch the strings. Make adjustments in the bow according to your environment.
Arrow Considerations
An arrow’s overall weight and its stiffness are the important factors you need to consider when you are choosing an arrow. The two factors that affect the shooting are the flight and force with which the arrow is released.
Safety Precautions
Bowhunting safety rules apply to the proper handling of equipment in the field. You need to consider the safety precautions. Exercise regularly and try to hunt and shoot within your own physical limitations. Keep your gear in protective cases.
Dress properly to endure harsh weather. Make sure to inform your family and friends about where you are going for hunting and keep a survival kit with you.
Tips to Use in Shooting a Bow in Hot Weather
Thanks to technology the compound bows are quite durable and if properly maintained last for more than 20 years. Cold weather causes bows to stiffer, creating more pressure on string and limbs. In short, in cold weather, the bow is harder to pull back which can be fixed by waxing strings and cables. Wax will protect from moisture and also stop cables from freezing.
Changing temperatures like heat will affect a compound bow. The heat causes more bad effects on compound bows than the cold weather. The bow’s strings and cables are the first thing affected by excessive heat. Anyway, some tips you can use to shoot in hot weather are:
Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself
It’s highly recommended that you stay hydrated in summer even some coaches also suggest adding vitamins or electrolytes into the liquid diet, to keep energy levels up in hot summer.
Bow and Equipment Considerations
The accuracy and velocity of the compound bow are affected by changes like temperature and humidity that’s the reason it’s suggested to immediately repair any defects in bow equipment.
- Check the arrows and bow for any kind of breaks, cracks, dents, separating laminates, or peeling glass. The defects in any mechanical parts of the bow can not only damage the bow but also cause injury.
- Regularly check the bowstring if it becomes worn or frayed then replace it. To extend the life of a bowstring regularly do waxing.
- Keep the bows in a bow cover, prefer a hard case, store arrows in quivers and accessories in a padded bag.
- Don’t make any kind of emotional decision. Moreover, avoid taking alcohol or any kind of drugs before archery.
Adjustments for Bow Performance
To make sure your bow is set up correctly, test your bow by shooting a few arrows now checking the accuracy and consistency of your shots. If you notice any problem affecting your arrow’s flight then make the necessary adjustments like following
- Remove the old string and Install the new string.
- A loose string can badly affect the accuracy of your bow so make sure it is tight enough before shooting. Also, recheck the string tension to make sure it is also tight.
- For consistency and security ensure the proper placement of the nock point on the bowstring.
- To measure the tension on the string use the cable “guard tension gauge”.
- Make sure the limb bolts are not loose and the bow is unstrung.
- It’s also recommended to place your bow in the shade even while shooting.
Of course, other parts of the equipment can be affected, too. So if your sight mark changes in the heat, don’t stress – stay with it, and understand it.
Arrow Considerations
The direction of the wind, air temperatures, humidity, and sunlight exploration can affect arrows while shooting. The arrows are made from different types of material mostly and commonly it’s wood but aluminum, carbon, or an aluminum-carbon mix material is also used by arrow manufacturers.
The straightness of the arrow’s length, diameter, weight, and tip are some of the most important factors one can’t neglect when choosing arrows. It’s important to consider following instructions in mind before getting arrows.
Shooting Environment and Breaks
The shooting Environment has a great impact on hunting or professional Archery. If a person is practicing even in winter or summer it’s recommended to rest a little bit like a short break, take water, or listen to music to lower the pressure and stress on the body.
Safety Precautions
I also suggest some safety protocols which are
- The strings will hurt archer fingers, especially beginners. It is highly recommended to use Gloves to avoid any injuries. Gloves aren’t mandatory but they are especially important while practicing.
- Professional archers prefer to use optimized shooting glasses. Such glasses are specially designed for archery practice. Regular shooting affects eye muscles and also causes fatigue and loss of focus.
- I also strongly recommended to avoid any kind of drugs or alcohol while shooting even on a hunting trip.
Tips to Use in Shooting a Bow in Raining
Rain can have the following effect on archery:
- Changeling a shooting style
- Effect the grip on a bow
When it’s raining consistently it’s difficult for Archer to focus on a target. It’s recommended to do practice and repetition to get comfortable while targeting in the rain.
Most recurve and compound bows are made of either aluminum or plastic and designed in such a way that rain won’t cause any problems. If you want to do archery in the rain you should keep the following points in mind.
Protect Yourself and Your Equipment
It’s important to cover yourself with a raincoat and use long leather boots while aiming in the rain. It’s also necessary to store your bow and arrows in a hard-covering case.
String and Bow Maintenance
It is recommended that before practicing aiming in rain, pluck the bowstring 2-3 times to remove water droplets. Use a plastic bag to cover the bow string temporarily from getting wet.
Shooting Technique and Safety
- To avoid slipping, use archery gloves which can help you to hold a grip on the bow.
- Compound bows and wooden recurve bows are usually oiled or waxed for proper maintenance purposes that not only increase their durability but such treatment will also make the bows waterproof
- Strings that are coated with wax don’t absorb water. To focus on your target also use see-through glasses.
- It’s also recommended that if it rains heavily and the wind is not in your favor at all don’t push yourself. Take a break and put your safety first.
Nevertheless, the type of bows, they are typically oiled or waxed to help increase their durability.
How to Protect Your Compound Bow In All Weather?
To enhance the lifespan of your bow you have to ensure the following precautions.
- General Bow Protection:
- Whether you are using your bow for hunting or for professional archery it’s necessary to store it in a dust-proof, heat-resistant, and waterproof covering.
- Dry and Wipe Down:
- Whenever you are going to use your bow to wipe it completely, use a dry cloth for such a purpose.
And that’s what you can do to maximize your bow’s lifespan!
COMMON QUESTIONS THAT I HEAR AS COMPOUND BOW OWNERS
Will heat hurt carbon arrows?
Yes, carbon arrows are designed to bear harsh weather conditions. They are more likable because of their durability but sometimes excess heat exposure their fiber expands which affects your archery.
Does temperature affect archery?
Yes, temperatures like heat and cold both have different effects on archery but heat is more dangerous than cold temperature.
How can I increase my bow strength?
The best way to train the muscles is resistance training which helps the archer to hold the bow steady means lifting weights. For such purposes, archers can also use a resistance band.
Do carbon bows get cold?
No cold weather affects the bows as much as heat does.
Do compound bows get weaker over time?
With regular care compound bows last longer however sometimes because of repeated use or minimal activity, you may realize the bowstring may lose some tension.
Do longer bows shoot faster?
A longbow requires more energy to push bowstrings, the arrow shoots at a fast speed with longer distances and more accuracy.
Ending Note
Archery is an amazing and super fun activity to engage in. Archery can be played all year round and is not a seasonal sport. It is a very fine outdoor activity that can be done both in summer and in winter. So it doesn’t matter if you play it in winter or summer. You just need to take the Important precautions as discussed above.
References:
https://www.huntingnet.com/forum/technical/4577-how-does-temperature-affect-compound-bows.html
https://www.orchestrateacher.net/2013/02/02/bow-warm-up-exercises/
https://www.bowhunter-ed.com/pennsylvania/studyGuide/Bowhunting-Safety/30103902_10082/
