Regardless of the kind of bow you are using; a compound, recurve, or longbow, maintaining it is very important. This helps in not only keeping your bow brand new but also provides it with additional years to work in good condition.
Waxing your bow strings is one such maintaining procedure that you have to follow.
However, in order to wax your bowstring, you need to find the right product, know how to do it, and also be aware of what things to avoid. In this guide, we have compiled the benefits of bowstring waxing and answered all the questions you may have regarding this procedure, so keep on reading.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Bow String Waxes
- OUR TOP PICK: Scorpion Venom Polymeric Bowstring Wax
- RUNNER-UP: 30-06 Outdoors String Snot Bow String Wax
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Mossy Oak Bow String Wax
Comparison of the Best Bow String Waxes
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What is Bow String Wax, and What is it Used For?
As mentioned above, bow strings need proper maintenance in order to keep them in top-notch condition and to enable them to continue providing precision and accuracy. They are highly elastic, and over time, tend to lose their elasticity, which is their best feature. The bowstring wax is designed in order to take good care of your bowstring and maintain it, too.
This kind of wax is basically created to keep you from having to change your bowstring constantly every few months. It maintains the strength of the bowstring as well as its elasticity. A good wax will also allow you to use your bowstring regularly and to hit your targets accurately. Choosing low-quality wax can cause a lot of damage to your bowstring and leave behind negative effects.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Take note, even though having bowstring wax is very important, it is also imperative you pick the perfect one. Now, this step requires a lot of research. In order to help you out, here are some tips and features to look for:
Choose Unscented Waxes
It is recommended to invest in unscented wax. The reason behind this is that scented wax is not only irritating to your nose, but your target can also detect the scent beforehand, making it run away. This is especially important for deer hunters since deer have a very strong sense of smell. However, if you are simply using your bow for practice, then you can invest in a scented product.
Ease of Transport and Use
Bowstring waxes come in many different packaging. Some of these are available in round boxes, whereas some come in a tube. When choosing one, it is important to think about the ease of comfort as well as transport.
Try to buy a wax that can easily fit in your pocket and at the same time is easy to apply too, no matter where you are. To test out its effectiveness, you can grab those that are small in size.
Waterproof
Last but not least, it is important to ensure you are investing in a wax that is strong and is also waterproof. Doing so will allow you to use it readily, regardless of the weather. After all, you do not want the strings to get damaged after applying the wax in the rain. Also, try to go for natural and organic products, as they are better than artificial ones.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
Composition Base: The main base ingredient of the wax. This can include synthetic, beeswax, natural wax, silicone, polymeric. Certain types are contraindicated for some bowstrings.
Recommended Use: This is the bowstrings recommended for use with the wax. Some are formulated to work with certain types or for specific uses.
Scent: Some waxes are scented and produce a pleasant odor. For hunting or personal preference unscented is often desired.
Review of the Best Bow String Waxes
Finding the best bow string wax yourself can be a tough and tiresome decision. You will have to go through plenty of reviews, pros and cons, and many other things to decide which one to buy. In order to make the decision easy for you, we have compiled and reviewed the top ones present in the market.
Best Overall:
Scorpion Venom Polymeric Bowstring Wax
PROS
CONS
Review
Despite its name, this is made entirely from natural products. This Scorpion Venom Wax is perfect for people who love to hunt and need accuracy in their shots. It is also resistant to moisture. Since it is unscented and odorless, it helps camouflage easily and keeps you hidden when hunting.
Applying it is also very easy. Moreover, it is affordable and also very classic, which makes it stand out. The natural ingredients used in its manufacturing are optimized conniption oils that include kokum, shea, and mango. The formula of this product is very flexible; it does not freeze, nor does it become brittle as compared to other cheap wax available in the market.
The best part about it is that it can stand any weather condition and be used on your bow string anywhere, anytime. Furthermore, this product comes with an applicator that makes it incredibly easy to apply, even when on the field. The oils present tend to work their way onto the string and do not get clumped up. For this reason, they are reliable, durable, and help in improving the lifespan of your bow.
Bottom Line
Apart from a single applicator drawback, this wax is worth investing it. It is reliable, works for a long time, and is made using natural ingredients that make it the best overall.
Product Specs
Composition Base:
Polymeric
Recommended Use:
Compound bow strings
Scent:
Odorless
Runner-up:
30-06 Outdoors String Snot Bow String Wax
PROS
CONS
Review
This is another incredible bowstring wax present in the market. It is made using materials that are moisture-repellent. This makes it perfect for the harsh weather and since it is anti-freeze, it can be used in the winters easily. Plus, since it is unscented, it allows you to camouflage with ease while hunting.
This wax is made with premium quality materials that cause it to be strong and it has a precise formula. It is a mixture of wax, oil, and grease, making it different from traditional beeswax. Applying and using this wax on your bowstring is a smooth and easy process and helps in alleviating your bow’s performance. It provides you with accuracy and a long-lasting bowstring.
This wax smooths the strings out right away, which makes it an ideal investment. One thing you will definitely notice is that after lubricating your strings, you will experience less noisy twangs when hunting. Also, drawing the bow will be a smoother feel as well.
Regardless of how professional your skills are during archery or hunting, this strong bow wax will improve all bowstring activities and make it easy for you. The best part about it is that it is easy to carry with you due to its tube shape. This shape also allows you to apply it no matter where you are.
Bottom Line
All in all, this wax is a runner-up on our list due to its incredible features and because it is a complete package. Not only does it make archery and hunting easy, but it is also easy to apply, transport, and buy. It is reasonable in price and improves the performance of the bow. Plus, it does not only strengthen your bowstring but also smooths the entire process out and improves your performance overall.
Product Specs
Composition Base:
Blend of wax, grease & oil
Scent:
Odorless
Best for the Money:
Mossy Oak Bow String Wax
PROS
CONS
Review
This Mossy Oak Bow String Wax is suited for many different outdoor activities that include hunting and archery. It is the best in terms of money and is designed to prolong and enhance the string’s life. If you are in need of a good bowstring wax that you can use all around, this is an excellent option to invest in.
The best thing about this option is that it is compatible with most bows present today. It is very versatile and can be used on all kinds of strings, which is an added bonus. This is a great choice due to its ease of application and transport. This product is good for all types of bowstrings and keeps them from fraying. This wax is no doubt slightly tacky, but this is great for steadiness and aiming, and is not overly sticky.
It works best when it is used at room temperature. So, before applying, though you do not have to warm it up at all, you can. If you prefer slightly warm wax, you can warm it up without any issue. Plus, this is suited for strings whether they are crossbow or synthetic.
Moreover, it is quite solid and prevents your strings from fraying. Its tube packaging also makes it easy for you to carry it. Using the tube, you can apply this wax no matter where you are. There is a push bottom present under the tube, which allows you to get the amount you desire with ease.
Bottom Line
This product is ideal to invest in since it can work on many different strings. It can be easy to use, even at room temperature, and since it is partially tacky, you won’t feel gross using it.
Product Specs
Composition Base:
Natural ingredients including super grease
Recommended Use:
Sythetic bowstrings
Scent:
Odorless
Best Recurve Bow String Wax:
Bohning 1306
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This bowstring wax is well-reviewed by the customers. According to them, it effectively enhances the durability of the bowstring and has excellent consistency. It is not only very easy to apply but also suitable for all kinds of weather, making it very useful for bows you would use outdoors. Moreover, the tube packaging allows you to carry it around in your pocket.
Why it Stands Out to us
The Bohning 1306 wax mainly stands out to us for exhibiting a bright red cool packaging and natural composition. Being a natural-made wax, it provides superior strength and durability to the bowstring. Since the wax is waterproof, it offers ultimate protection even in harsh weather conditions. Finally, there is no funky smell, and it lubricates very well.
Bottom Line
An extraordinary bowstring wax, this product is perfect for synthetic bow and quite popular among hunters. Made from only natural ingredients, it is odorless and lasts long. The simplicity and ease of use make this bowstring wax a great choice for outdoor hunting and shooting.
Product Specs
Composition Base:
Natural based wax
Recommended Use:
Sythetic bowstrings
Scent:
Odorless
Best for Compound Bows:
SHENG-RUI Bow String Wax
PROS
CONS
Review
This wax is the ideal option for people who own a compound bow. It is 66 mm in length and has a diameter of only 16.5 mm. It has an easy to transport design since it comes in a Chapstick-like tube. You can apply this wax anywhere you want with ease. This product is not very tacky, making it easy for you to use.
Moreover, applying this provides you with the accuracy and precision you need during archery or hunting activities and is also very flexible. Like the above-mentioned product, this one can also be used at room temperature. However, if you find that to be too soft, you can cool this product by placing it in the refrigerator.
This wax helps in lengthening the lifespan of the strings and also lubricates them, allowing you to use the strings with ease. This makes it perfect for compound bows and helps with the hunting.
Bottom Line
If you are an owner of compound bows, this is perfect for you. It is easy to apply and carry, and it can lubricate the strings, making it one of the best to invest in.
Product Specs
Composition Base:
100% natural ingredients
Recommended Use:
Sythetic bowstrings
Editor's Pick:
LimbSaver Crossbow Rail Lube
PROS
CONS
Review
Our editor is particularly fond of the LimbSaver Crossbow Rail lube since it helps increase the lifespan of the strings and also reduces friction between the rails. This wax helps in improving the overall performance. It is made with a special formula that provides you with odorless protection. Plus, since it is unscented, it allows you to camouflage easily.
This wax is moisture-repellent, which prevents your strings from rusting. It helps provide you with a 100 percent sealed barrier that is invisible completely. Using state-of-the-art products and technology, this LimbSaber provides you with highly effective vibration dampening and noise-reduction. This makes it perfect to use for hunting and archery.
Bottom Line
This is a very good wax that can be used easily when kept at room temperature. It is made using premium quality materials and helps in preventing rust. It acts as a sealed barrier over your bow and remains invisible. Plus, since it is unscented, it allows you to camouflage easily. Overall, it is a great product to invest in and is worth your money.
Product Specs
Scent:
Odorless
Benefits of Investing in Quality Wax
Many people do not know the importance and benefits these waxes have. In fact, beginners tend to neglect their use. However, they provide the following benefits:
Increases the Lifespan of Strings
The main and foremost reason for investing in these bowstring waxes is they help increase the lifespan of your strings. However, this lifespan is only increased if you make use of the wax on a regular basis and also maintain it properly.
Improves Your Performance
Every single detail and maintenance you perform on your bow string will either make or break your performance on the hunting field. These waxes do the same, they help in improving your performance regardless of the weather and also increase your accuracy. Also, they are an ideal investment since they prevent your strings from breaking when you’re hunting.
Easy to Use and Bring With You
The best advantage is that they are available in small packaging or a tube and this can easily last for many months. Whenever you need to lubricate your strings, you can use this wax, and since they are in small sizes, you can carry them around as well.
Another benefit is they are effortless when it comes to applying them. You can simply apply with your fingers for a few seconds.
How Do I Choose Bow String Wax?
Irrespective of the type of bow you have, each of them needs some regular maintenance. Using a bowstring wax is always a good idea as it not only strengthens the bowstring but improves the lifespan as well.
The market is currently overflowing with an array of bowstring waxes, and it might become difficult to pick the ideal one. This requires some serious research, and to help you out, we have listed down some important features that must not be overlooked in any case.
Unscented Wax
Whenever you intend to purchase a bowstring wax, it’s recommended to go for natural-based and unscented waxes. Scented waxes with chemical composition have a strong smell, and animals can sense it immediately. An unscented wax would not only save you from nose irritation but improve your hunting game as well.
Portable and Easy to Use
Bowstring waxes are available in various packaging. You should always go for a low-profile design that easily fits your pocket. For example, a tube is not only easy to transport but also saves you from any hassle when using it.
Waterproof
While investing in a bowstring wax, make sure it can hold up to elements and comes with waterproof features. A waterproof wax is the best option to avoid any damage to your bowstring in any weather condition. This feature protects your bow and makes it useful on the field, regardless of the weather.
Price
An affordable price tag always acts as a cherry on the top. Go for a wax that is not only beneficial but lies within your budget.
How to Wax a Bow String
Even after buying a premium quality bowstring wax, you still have to make sure that you apply it properly. This is very important because many people and even store owners today unintentionally abuse their bows by not applying wax to their strings correctly. Maintaining your bowstring is a lot easier than you think, but you should not take it for granted.
Before waxing, it is important that you clean the bowstring in order to get rid of dirt and also prevent it from penetrating the string. This cleaning can be done easily by applying a string cleaner and letting it set on the string for five minutes. Afterward, you can wipe it with a soft and clean cloth.
Once your bow is free from dirt and dust, you can apply the bowstring wax. Make sure not to use beeswax or candle wax at all. Only use a special, silicone-based bowstring wax present in the market. Apply it on the naked string and avoid applying it on the serving areas of the string or the cables. Make sure to rub it onto the string using your finger and let it penetrate the bowstring.
Conclusion
In this guide, we have put together the best bowstring wax available in the market along with a buyer’s guide in order for you to invest in the perfect product. Buying the best one will ensure you can maintain your bow for long.
People Also Ask
Beginners often have many questions regarding a new product. So, mentioned below are the most frequently asked questions answered to help you out.
Do You Need to Wax Your Bow String?
Yes, waxing your bowstring is extremely important in order to prolong the lifespan and save the strings from any damage. Most of the waxes are immune to weathering and, therefore, improves the performance of your bowstring to a great extent. Furthermore, a well-maintained string is less prone to damage and makes archery a bit safer for you.
Do You Wax the Cables on a Compound Bow?
Yes, regular maintenance of a compound bow involves waxing the exposed parts of the cables as well. Rubbing the wax prevents the string from “fraying off” and increases the longevity by protecting against excessive moisture as well as drying out. It is recommended to wax the bow strings every two to three weeks for top-notch functioning.
What is Bow String Wax Made of?
Manufacturers employ different recipes for the preparation of bowstring waxes to set their products ahead of the others. Some of them are made from natural ingredients and devoid of any scent. In general, it is a special blend of beeswax, oil, and grease that makes it different from traditional beeswax.
How to Tell if Bow Wax is Bad?
A wax that is too greasy or has a hard consistency is never recommended. Similarly, wax lacking waterproof capabilities would be unable to protect your bowstring in extreme weather conditions. It is, therefore, imperative to look for a practical yet ideal wax that gives your bowstring the strength it needs.
How Often Should You Wax Your Bow String?
It is essential for you to remember that waxing should be done every two weeks or whenever you start to see the string's hair. This indicates the separation of the string fibers and can ruin your bow if not taken care of.
Should I Use Unscented Wax?
As mentioned above, one of the features to look for in bowstring wax before buying is that it should be unscented, at least if you are planning on using your bow for hunting. This is because scented wax can alert the target and also cause irritation to the user.
Can I Use Chapstick on My Bow String?
No, Chapstick, candle wax, and even beeswax should not be used instead of bowstring wax since it can contain chemicals that instead of maintaining the strings, degrade the fibers of the bowstring.
How Do You Remove Old Wax From Bow Strings?
In order to clean your bowstring, you must start with a thin dental floss and wrap it in one single round over your string. Now, pull this floss tightly and work it from top to bottom of your string; this floss acts as a scraper and helps in removing any wax left behind on the string, or that is built up. You can repeat this step multiple times if required.
