Selway Limbsaver Longbow Review

The Selway Limbsaver Longbow Review You’ve Been Looking For

As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the field, workshop, and laboratory, I’ve come to rely on equipment that is both robust and efficient. My search for a reliable tool to aid in stringing traditional bows recently led me to the Selway Limbsaver Longbow. This particular piece of gear isn’t flashy, but its purpose is critical: safely and effectively stringing a longbow. The need arose from a recent acquisition of a vintage recurve that required a bit more finesse to set up than my usual compound bows. I needed something that would prevent limb twist and ensure the bow was strung correctly every time. My first impression upon holding this stringer was one of practicality; it felt solid and well-constructed, devoid of unnecessary embellishments. I briefly considered generic cord-and-loop stringers, but the specific design of this Selway product promised a more secure and controlled experience. It offered a simple, yet effective solution to a common archer’s challenge.

Real-World Testing: Putting Selway Limbsaver Longbow to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this bow stringer took place in my home workshop, a space accustomed to tools of all kinds, from fine-tuning instruments to heavy-duty machinery. I first used it on a mid-weight recurve, around 50 lbs draw weight, to get a feel for its mechanics. The process was remarkably straightforward; the cordura limb cup fit snugly over the upper limb, and the rubber limb pad securely cradled the lower limb. I noticed immediately that there was no slippage or awkward play, which is a common frustration with simpler stringers.

The key advantage was the controlled tension it provided. Unlike a basic rope stringer, the design here seemed to distribute pressure evenly, mitigating any potential stress on the limbs. I did not encounter any issues, and the operation was intuitive from the very first attempt. It met my immediate need for a dependable stringing tool with minimal fuss.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past several weeks, I’ve used the Selway Limbsaver Longbow on a variety of traditional bows, ranging from lighter youth models to my own heavier hunting recurve, pushing close to the 75 lb limit mentioned in its specifications. It has held up exceptionally well across all these applications, consistently providing a secure and reliable way to string each bow.

There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the cordura cup or the rubber limb pad, which is impressive given the repeated tension and friction it endures. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris from the workshop floor. It remains stiff and functional, unlike some cheaper alternatives that can become frayed or lose their shape over time. Compared to the often-fiddly nature of using a simple bow string or my old, worn-out stringer with its slipping pads, this Selway model is a significant upgrade in terms of both convenience and safety.

Breaking Down the Features of Selway Limbsaver Longbow

Specifications

The Selway Limbsaver Longbow is designed with simplicity and effectiveness in mind. It features a robust cordura limb cup on one end, engineered to firmly grip the upper limb of a traditional bow without causing damage or slippage. On the opposing end, it incorporates a durable rubber limb pad, which provides a secure and non-marring contact point for the lower limb. This thoughtful combination ensures the bow is held stable and even during the stringing process.

The stringer is constructed to handle bows with a draw weight of up to 75 lbs, a specification that covers a vast majority of traditional archery equipment. This weight capacity is crucial for ensuring the stringer’s integrity and preventing failure under stress. The overall length of the stringer is optimized for traditional longbows and recurves, providing adequate leverage without being excessively long or cumbersome to store.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary function of stringing a bow, the Selway Limbsaver Longbow performs admirably. The secure fit of both the limb cup and pad ensures that the bow remains stable throughout the entire process. This stability is paramount in preventing accidental limb twist, a common issue that can compromise the performance and longevity of a bow.

The even distribution of pressure afforded by this design is a significant strength. Unlike less sophisticated stringers that can create pressure points or uneven stress, this model cradles the limbs effectively. While it performs its core function exceptionally well, it’s important to note that it is a specialized tool; it doesn’t offer any additional functionalities beyond stringing.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Selway Limbsaver Longbow is rooted in practicality, prioritizing function over form. The use of heavy-duty cordura for the limb cup suggests durability and resistance to wear, which is essential for a tool subjected to repeated friction and tension. The rubber limb pad is equally well-chosen; it offers excellent grip without being overly sticky, protecting the bow’s finish.

Ergonomically, it’s designed for ease of use. The length is well-proportioned, allowing for a comfortable stance and sufficient leverage when stringing a bow, even those with a higher draw weight. There’s no discernible learning curve; it’s straightforward to grasp and implement correctly, making it accessible even for novice archers who might be intimidated by stringing their first traditional bow.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, the Selway Limbsaver Longbow appears to be built for longevity. The cordura and rubber components are standard for high-wear outdoor equipment, indicating a good resistance to abrasion and environmental factors. Under normal use within its specified weight limit, I anticipate this stringer will last for many years.

Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is a major plus for busy individuals. A quick wipe to remove any dust or debris is generally all that’s required. There are no complex parts to clean or lubricate, and it can be stored easily in a quiver, a bow case, or a workshop drawer. The lack of complex mechanisms means there are very few potential failure points.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Selway Limbsaver Longbow is a standalone tool and does not come with any additional accessories. It is designed to be a simple, effective solution for stringing traditional bows and does not offer any scope for customization in terms of interchangeable parts or add-ons. Its inherent design is its singular focus.

This lack of accessories or customization is not a detriment, however, as the product fulfills its intended purpose flawlessly as is. For archers, the bow itself is the primary piece of equipment requiring customization, and this stringer supports that by ensuring the bow is strung correctly and safely.

Pros and Cons of Selway Limbsaver Longbow

Who Should Buy Selway Limbsaver Longbow?

The Selway Limbsaver Longbow is an excellent choice for any archer who shoots traditional bows, including longbows and recurves. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners who are new to stringing their own bows, as its ease of use and safety features provide confidence. Experienced traditional archers who value their equipment and want a reliable, no-nonsense tool will also find it invaluable.

However, those who primarily shoot bows exceeding the 75 lb draw weight limit may need to look for a heavy-duty alternative. For anyone else engaging in traditional archery, particularly those who don’t have access to a bow shop for stringing, this product is a highly recommended addition to their gear. I’d suggest pairing it with a quality bow square to ensure perfect limb alignment every time.

Conclusion on Selway Limbsaver Longbow

The Selway Limbsaver Longbow stands out as a simple yet highly effective piece of archery equipment. Its straightforward design, utilizing a durable cordura limb cup and a secure rubber limb pad, addresses the critical need for safe and damage-free bow stringing. For its modest price of $17.99, it delivers exceptional value, providing peace of mind and protecting valuable archery equipment from potential damage caused by improper stringing.

I would absolutely recommend this bow stringer to virtually any traditional archer. It streamlines a potentially hazardous task, making it accessible and safe for archers of all skill levels. If you own a longbow or recurve, this accessory is a small investment that offers a significant return in equipment safety and usability.