Limbsaver Super String Leech Review

First Impressions of the Limbsaver Super String Leech

The Limbsaver Super String Leech, manufactured by Limbsaver, is designed to tackle a common annoyance for archers: string noise and oscillation. This unassuming accessory aims to make your shots significantly quieter and cleaner by absorbing unwanted vibration. My initial encounter with this product was driven by a desire for a more consistent and stealthy shooting experience, particularly when practicing at the range or during extended fieldwork.

The immediate impression upon unboxing this string dampener is its compact and lightweight nature. It feels robust, despite its small size, with a matte black finish that suggests durability. Compared to other string silencing methods I’ve experimented with, like homemade felt inserts or bulkier dampeners, this appears to offer a more purpose-built solution. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism – could such a small piece of equipment genuinely make a noticeable difference?

Real-World Testing: Putting Limbsaver Super String Leech to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for the Limbsaver Super String Leech were primarily my local archery range and a few quiet afternoons in my backyard. Installation was straightforward; the product’s design allows it to be easily positioned on the bowstring without specialized tools. I attached one near the top cam and another near the bottom cam, as per the manufacturer’s suggestion, and also experimented with adding a pair to the control and buss cables for a more comprehensive test.

The immediate difference was palpable. Upon releasing the first arrow with the dampeners installed, the characteristic “twang” of the string was dramatically reduced. It wasn’t entirely silent, but the sharp, resonating noise was replaced by a much softer thud. This initial experience confirmed that the dampeners were indeed working, reducing string oscillation and providing a more pleasant shooting experience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, ranging from casual practice sessions to more demanding range days with back-to-back shots, the Limbsaver Super String Leech units have held up exceptionally well. They show no signs of premature wear, such as cracking or degradation of the NAVCOM material. Even after being exposed to some dust and varying humidity levels at the outdoor range, their performance has remained consistent.

Compared to some budget alternatives I’ve used in the past, which often became stiff or less effective over time, these dampeners feel like they are built for the long haul. Cleaning is non-existent, as they don’t collect dirt or debris in any significant way due to their low-profile design. Their reliability in consistently reducing string noise has made them a permanent fixture on my bows.

Breaking Down the Features of Limbsaver Super String Leech

Specifications

The Limbsaver Super String Leech is constructed from NAVCOM, a proprietary material engineered by Limbsaver specifically for vibration dampening. This material is known for its ability to absorb energy and reduce unwanted noise. The dampeners are non-threaded, designed to be applied directly to the string or cable.

They boast a lightweight and low-profile design, ensuring they don’t add significant mass to the bowstring assembly or interfere with arrow flight. The product is also described as weatherproof, making it suitable for a wide range of outdoor conditions. A key specification, as noted in the product description, is its ability to reduce up to 90% of string noise and stop string oscillation.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Limbsaver Super String Leech is to minimize string noise and oscillation, and it excels at this task. The reduction in the “twang” after the shot is significant and immediately noticeable. The decay time modification technology mentioned in the product description seems to be effectively at play, as the string settles much faster after release.

This dampening effect translates to a more stable shot and potentially improved accuracy, as less residual vibration can influence the arrow’s trajectory. The effectiveness in reducing noise is a major strength, making the shooting experience far more pleasant. A minor weakness could be that while it dramatically reduces noise, it doesn’t eliminate it entirely, which is understandable given the physics of a bowstring.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this string dampener is elegantly simple and effective. Its low-profile design is a significant advantage, preventing it from snagging on clothing or the archery target. The black color is unobtrusive and blends well with most bow aesthetics.

Ergonomically, once installed, it’s virtually unnoticeable during the draw and shot cycle. The NAVCOM material feels somewhat pliable yet sturdy, suggesting it can withstand the constant tension and release of the bowstring. The absence of any complex mechanisms or adjustable parts makes it incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special handling beyond initial installation.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the Limbsaver Super String Leech is built for longevity. The tough and durable materials are evident, and I haven’t encountered any signs of cracking or degradation, even after consistent use in various conditions. The weatherproof nature means it doesn’t require special care when exposed to rain or humidity.

Maintenance is essentially non-existent. Unlike some other bow accessories that require cleaning or lubrication, these dampeners are essentially maintenance-free. One can reasonably expect them to last for many thousands of shots, making them a cost-effective solution for noise reduction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Limbsaver Super String Leech is a standalone product and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its design is intended for direct application to the bowstring or cables. There are no inherent customization options regarding color or size, as it’s offered in a standard configuration.

The product’s simplicity is its strength; it doesn’t require any extra parts or compatibility considerations with other brands to function as intended. However, the ability to purchase them in multi-packs allows archers to outfit multiple bows or add them to both the string and cables for maximum effect.

Pros and Cons of Limbsaver Super String Leech

Who Should Buy Limbsaver Super String Leech?

This product is ideal for any archer looking to quiet their bow and improve their shooting experience. This includes hunters who need to remain stealthy in the field, target archers seeking a more refined and consistent shot, and recreational archers who simply want to enjoy a less noisy practice session. It’s particularly beneficial for those shooting faster, more powerful bows that tend to generate more string noise.

Those who might consider skipping this product are individuals who are already satisfied with the noise level of their current bow or those who might find the slight remaining noise unacceptable even after installation. For maximum benefit, it’s recommended to consider purchasing a pack that allows for application on both the main string and cables, if your bow’s design permits.

Conclusion on Limbsaver Super String Leech

The Limbsaver Super String Leech is a simple yet highly effective accessory that delivers on its core promise: reducing string noise and oscillation. For its modest price of $8.99, the performance and audible improvement it offers are outstanding. The NAVCOM material, combined with the intelligent design, creates a noticeable difference in the shooting experience, making it a worthwhile investment for nearly any archer.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Limbsaver Super String Leech to anyone looking to enhance the quietness and refinement of their bow. It’s an easy, affordable upgrade that brings tangible benefits, making your time on the range or in the field significantly more enjoyable and potentially more successful.