How to Store a Bow Safely (Recurve & Compound)
A bow is a precision tool under tension, and how you store it affects its accuracy and lifespan. The essentials: keep it indoors at stable temperature and humidity, protect it from impacts, and know whether your bow type should be stored strung or unstrung. Here's how to do it right.
The universal rules
- Stable climate. Store bows indoors where temperature and humidity are steady. Big swings and high humidity can warp wood and degrade materials.
- Never leave a bow in a hot car. Heat can damage limbs, cams, and strings, and warp traditional bows — one of the most common ways bows get ruined.
- Out of direct sunlight, which dries and weakens materials over time.
- Use a case for transport and storage to protect against knocks, dust, and scratches.
- Store horizontally or hang it properly so limbs aren't resting under uneven pressure against a wall.
Strung vs. unstrung
This is where bow type matters:
- Traditional recurves and longbows: generally unstring them for long-term storage. Leaving them strung for long periods can cause the limbs to take a "set" (lose their shape and draw strength) over time.
- Modern take-down recurves: many can be stored strung short-term, but for long storage, unstringing (or removing limbs on a take-down) is the safe choice.
- Compound bows: stay strung — they're designed to remain under tension, and de-stringing them requires a bow press. Just keep the string and cables cared for.
When in doubt for your specific bow, follow the manufacturer's guidance.
String and limb care in storage
Keep the string waxed and inspect it periodically for fraying (see maintaining and stringing your bow). Check limbs for cracks or twists before and after long storage. Loosen nothing on a compound yourself without a press.
Everyday vs. long-term
For everyday use between sessions, a case in a closet at room temperature is fine. For long-term storage (off-season), that's when unstringing a traditional bow, giving the string a fresh wax, and choosing a stable, dry spot matter most. Store accessories and gear with the bow so nothing gets lost.
Frequently asked questions
Should you unstring a bow when storing it?
Unstring traditional recurves and longbows for long-term storage to prevent the limbs from taking a set. Compound bows stay strung (they need a press to de-string). Modern take-down recurves are best unstrung or broken down for long storage.
Can you leave a bow in the car?
No — heat and temperature swings in a car can damage limbs, cams, strings, and warp traditional bows. Always bring your bow indoors to a stable environment.
How should a bow be stored at home?
Indoors at stable temperature and humidity, out of direct sun, in a case or hung/laid so the limbs aren't under uneven pressure. Keep the string waxed and inspect the bow before and after long storage.
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