Bow serving string alternatives can include dental floss, artificial sinew, upholstery thread, silk, nylon, cotton, braided fishing line, and polyester string.

These materials can be used as substitutes for serving string in archery. It’s important to consider the characteristics of the material, such as stretchiness and durability when choosing an alternative serving string.

Bow serving string

Bow serving string is a type of thread or material that is wrapped around the bowstring to protect it from wear and provide a smooth surface for the arrow to slide against. It is typically made from durable materials such as polyester, nylon, or a combination of synthetic fibers. 

Bow serving string is available in various thicknesses and colors to suit different bow types and personal preferences. To serve a bow string, you can use a serving tool or a serving jig to evenly wrap the serving string around the bowstring. 

The serving string is wrapped tightly in a spiral pattern, with each wrap sitting snugly against the previous one. This helps to create a smooth and durable serving layer.

The serving string is commonly used to create the center serving, which is a thicker section of serving material that protects the area where the arrow is nocked. It can also be used to create servings for other parts of the bowstring, such as the control cables.

It’s important to choose a serving string that is appropriate for your bow and shooting style. The thickness and material of the serving string can affect the performance and durability of the bowstring.

Bow Serving String Alternatives

When it comes to alternatives for bow serving string, there are several options you can consider. Here are some Bow Serving String Alternatives:

Dental Floss

Dental floss can be used as a substitute for serving string. It is thin, strong, and readily available. 

Using dental floss as a bow serving string alternative has both pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:
  • Availability: Dental floss is widely available in many stores, making it easily accessible as a temporary or emergency serving material.
  • Strength: Dental floss is designed to be strong and durable, which makes it capable of serving a bowstring effectively.
  • Thin Diameter: Dental floss is thin, allowing for tight and precise serving wraps without adding excessive bulk to the bowstring.
  • Convenience: Dental floss is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a convenient option to have on hand for quick repairs or temporary serving needs.
Cons:
  • Limited Longevity: Dental floss may not have the same level of durability and longevity as dedicated serving materials. It may wear out more quickly, especially with repeated use or under high tension.
  • Lack of Specificity: Dental floss is not specifically designed for serving bowstrings. It may not offer the same level of protection, stability, or consistency as specialized serving materials.
  • Limited Color Options: Dental floss usually comes in a limited range of colors, which may not match the aesthetics or preferences of some archers.
  • Potential Slippage: Depending on the type and quality of dental floss used, there is a possibility of slippage or unraveling over time, which can affect the serving’s performance and stability.

It’s important to note that while dental floss can be used as a temporary or emergency serving material, it is generally recommended to use dedicated serving materials for optimal performance, durability, and safety. 

Dental floss should not be considered a permanent solution for serving a bowstring.

Artificial Sinew

Artificial sinew is a synthetic material that is commonly used in crafting and can also be used as a serving string substitute. It is durable and has good tensile strength.

Using artificial sinew as a bow serving string alternative also has its pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:
  • Strength: Artificial sinew is known for its high strength and durability, which makes it suitable for serving a bowstring and providing good stability.
  • Traditional Appeal: Artificial sinew can provide a traditional look and feel to your bow, especially if you prefer a more traditional or primitive aesthetic.
  • Ease of Use: Artificial sinew is relatively easy to work with, making it accessible for archers who prefer to do their own bowstring maintenance and serving.
  • Availability: Artificial sinew is widely available in various stores and online, making it easily accessible for archers.
Cons:
  • Limited Color Options: Artificial sinew may have limited color options available, which may not match the aesthetics or preferences of some archers.
  • Thicker Diameter: Artificial sinew tends to have a thicker diameter compared to specialized serving materials, which may add more bulk to the bowstring and potentially affect the string’s performance or fit in bowstring grooves.
  • Potential Stretch: Depending on the quality and type of artificial sinew used, there is a possibility of slight stretching over time, which may affect the serving’s tightness and stability.
  • Less Consistent Performance: Artificial sinew may not provide the same level of consistency and performance as specialized serving materials designed specifically for bowstrings.

Upholstery Thread: 

Upholstery thread, which is typically made from nylon or polyester, can be a suitable alternative for serving string. It is strong and resistant to wear.

Using upholstery thread as a bow serving string alternative may have its own set of pros and cons.

Pros:
  • Strength: Upholstery thread is typically designed to be strong and durable, which may make it suitable for serving a bowstring and providing good stability.
  • Availability: Upholstery thread is commonly available in various stores, making it easily accessible for archers who may need a quick or temporary serving solution.
  • Multiple Color Options: Upholstery thread often comes in a wide range of colors, allowing archers to choose a thread that matches their personal preferences or bow aesthetics.
  • Versatility: Upholstery thread is designed to withstand stress, making it potentially suitable for serving purposes.
Cons:
  • Thickness: Upholstery thread may have a thicker diameter compared to specialized serving materials, which may add more bulk to the bowstring and potentially affect the string’s performance or fit in bowstring grooves.
  • Lack of Specificity: Upholstery thread is not specifically designed for serving bowstrings, so it may not offer the same level of protection, stability, or consistency as dedicated serving materials.
  • Limited Longevity: Upholstery thread may not have the same level of durability and longevity as specialized serving materials. It may wear out more quickly, especially with repeated use or under high tension.

Silk: 

Silk thread can be used as a serving string alternative. It is strong, smooth, and has good abrasion resistance.

Using silk as a bow serving string alternative has its own set of pros and cons. Here are some general considerations:

Pros:
  • Smoothness: Silk is known for its smooth texture, which can reduce friction between the bowstring and the arrow, potentially improving arrow flight and accuracy.
  • Strength: Silk is a strong natural fiber, and when used as a serving string, it can provide good stability and durability.
  • Low Stretch: Silk generally has low stretch characteristics, which can help maintain the serving’s tightness and stability over time.
  • Aesthetics: Silk has a luxurious and elegant appearance, which can add a visually appealing element to your bow.
Cons:
  • Cost: Silk is generally more expensive compared to other serving materials, which may make it less accessible for some archers.
  • Limited Color Options: Silk may have limited color options available, which may not match the aesthetics or preferences of some archers.
  • Sensitivity to Moisture: Silk is sensitive to moisture and can lose its strength when wet. This may not be ideal for situations where the bowstring may come into contact with water or high humidity.
  • Maintenance: Silk may require more maintenance compared to synthetic materials, as it may need to be re-waxed periodically to maintain its smoothness and durability.

Nylon, Cotton, and Polyester Strings: 

These materials can be used as substitutes for serving string. They are readily available and offer varying degrees of strength and durability.

When it comes to using nylon, cotton, and polyester strings as bow serving string alternatives, here are some general considerations:

Nylon:
  • Pros: Nylon strings are known for their durability and strength. They can withstand high tensions and provide good stability. Nylon strings are also generally resistant to moisture and stretching.
  • Cons: Nylon strings may have a higher level of friction compared to specialized serving materials, which can affect arrow flight and performance. They may also have a thicker diameter, which can add bulk to the bowstring.
Cotton:
  • Pros: Cotton strings can be easily accessible and affordable. They may provide a smooth release and reduced friction.
  • Cons: Cotton strings tend to stretch and can lose their stability over time. They may also be less durable compared to other serving materials, especially under high tension.
Polyester:
  • Pros: Polyester strings are known for their strength, durability, and low stretch characteristics. They can provide good stability and maintain their shape over time.
  • Cons: Polyester strings may have a higher level of friction compared to specialized serving materials. They can also have a thicker diameter, which may affect the fit in bowstring grooves.

Braided Fishing Line: 

Braided fishing lines, especially the high-strength varieties, can be used as an alternative serving string. It is strong and resistant to wear.

Pros of using Braided Fishing Line as bow serving string alternative:
  • Strength and Durability: Braided fishing line is known for its high strength and durability. It can withstand high tensions and provide good stability to the bowstring.
  • Low Stretch: Braided fishing line typically has low stretch characteristics, which can help maintain the serving’s tightness and stability over time.
  • Resistance to Moisture: Fishing line is often designed to be resistant to moisture, which can be beneficial for bowstrings that may come into contact with water or high humidity.
  • Availability and Cost: Braided fishing line is widely available and relatively affordable compared to specialized serving materials.
Cons of using Braided Fishing Line as bow serving string alternative:
  • Friction and Noise: Braided fishing line may have a higher level of friction compared to specialized serving materials, which can affect arrow flight and produce more noise.
  • Thicker Diameter: Braided fishing line may have a thicker diameter compared to traditional serving materials, which can add bulk to the bowstring and potentially affect the fit in bowstring grooves.
  • Color Options: Fishing line may have limited color options available, which may not match the aesthetics or preferences of some archers.
  • Specific Applications: While braided fishing line can work as a serving alternative, it may not be suitable for all bow types or shooting styles. It’s important to consider the specific needs of your bow and consult experienced archers or professionals for guidance.
Bow serving string

How to replace bow serving string?

To replace bow serving string, you can follow these general steps:

Remove the old serving: 

Use a serving tool or a sharp knife to carefully cut and remove the old serving from your bowstring. Be cautious not to damage the underlying string fibers.

Prepare the new serving material: 

Cut a length of serving material that is slightly longer than the area you need to serve. It’s recommended to use specialized serving material for optimal performance and durability.

Secure the starting point: 

Use a serving tool or your fingers to secure the starting point of the serving material on the bowstring. This can be done by wrapping the serving material around the string and making several tight turns to create a secure anchor point.

Begin serving: 

With the serving material secured, start serving the bowstring by wrapping the serving material tightly around the string. Make sure to maintain an even tension and spacing between the turns. Use a serving tool to help guide and control the serving material.

Continue serving: 

Continue serving the bowstring until you reach the desired serving length or cover the area that needs serving. Keep the tension and spacing consistent throughout the process.

Secure the ending point: 

Once you’ve reached the desired serving length, secure the ending point of the serving material by making several tight turns and creating a secure anchor point. Trim any excess serving material.

Inspect and test: 

After serving, inspect the serving for any loose or uneven sections. Gently test the bowstring to ensure that the serving is secure and properly aligned.