Exploring the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit: My Review
As someone who has spent over a decade pushing gear to its limits across diverse environments – from dusty workshops and sterile labs to rugged outdoor trails and demanding field applications – I’ve developed a keen eye for what works, what doesn’t, and what truly makes a difference. My search for a reliable replacement string and cable set for my Mathews Z7 Extreme led me to the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit. This particular offering promised a blend of quality materials and a specific fit for a bow I’ve logged countless hours with. I was looking for a precise fit and durable performance, especially after my previous string began showing signs of fraying during a particularly demanding archery season. Considering other options like generic aftermarket kits or OEM replacements, this kit seemed to strike a balance between specialized construction and accessible pricing. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of quiet competence; the materials felt robust and the craftsmanship looked clean.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing environment for this string kit was primarily my home archery range and subsequent practice sessions at my local club. I installed the kit on my Mathews Z7 Extreme, a process that, for an experienced bow technician, was fairly straightforward. The new string and cable fit perfectly, requiring minimal tuning to get the bow back to its optimal performance.
During the initial setup and first few shots, I paid close attention to any serving separation or unusual creep. The Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit performed admirably, with no discernible creep even after the string settled in. I tested it in a variety of conditions, including a surprisingly humid morning and a dry, breezy afternoon, and noted no significant changes in arrow flight or nock travel. The handling and draw cycle felt consistent, as if the bow had simply received a well-deserved tune-up rather than a complete overhaul.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of shots, the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit has proven its mettle. My Mathews Z7 Extreme continues to shoot with the same precision and consistency as it did on day one. I’ve noticed no significant wear on the BCY-X material, nor any signs of the string or cable stretching beyond normal settling.
Compared to some budget-friendly alternatives I’ve used in the past, which often required re-tuning after only a few dozen shots, this premium kit has been remarkably stable. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after dusty range days is all that’s needed. The Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit has held up exceptionally well, demonstrating the durability expected from quality materials and construction.
Breaking Down the Features of Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit
Specifications
This specific Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit is engineered for the Mathews Z7 Extreme bow. It features a string measuring 82 7/8 inches and a split cable measuring 30 1/2 inches. The entire kit is constructed from BCY-X material, a well-regarded blend known for its strength, durability, and low stretch properties.
The precise lengths are critical for ensuring proper cam timing and limb alignment on the Mathews Z7 Extreme, directly impacting the bow’s performance and accuracy. The use of BCY-X material signifies a commitment to high-quality components, offering excellent resistance to peep sight rotation and heat buildup, which are common failure points in lesser strings. This material choice is a significant factor in the longevity and consistent performance of the string set.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a bowstring and cable set is to facilitate the transfer of energy from the archer to the arrow efficiently and reliably, and the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit excels at this. My Mathews Z7 Extreme, once restrung, exhibited a remarkably smooth draw cycle and a crisp release. Arrow speed and consistency remained at peak levels, a testament to the minimal creep and stretch inherent in the BCY-X material.
The strengths of this kit lie in its precise fit for the Z7 Extreme and the superior material used. I experienced no noticeable serving separation, even under significant tension, and the cam timing remained spot-on throughout testing. If there’s a weakness, it might be the $119.99 price point, which positions it at the higher end for replacement strings, though the performance justifies the investment for serious archers.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit is purpose-built for a specific bow model, ensuring optimal integration. The materials themselves, the BCY-X blend, contribute to a slightly grippy yet smooth feel, which is beneficial during the draw and release phases. The serving on the string appears robust, designed to withstand repeated contact with the arrow nock and release aid.
From an ergonomic standpoint, the user experience is largely determined by the bow it’s installed on. However, the quality of the string and cable directly impacts the feel of the draw and shot. This premium kit contributes to a clean, vibration-free shot, enhancing the overall shooting experience without introducing any new ergonomic challenges.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on the BCY-X material and the initial testing, the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit is engineered for substantial durability. Bowstrings of this caliber are typically designed to last for thousands of shots before needing replacement. Given its premium construction, I anticipate it will significantly outlast generic or lower-quality alternatives.
Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving keeping the string clean and dry. Applying a string wax specifically designed for synthetic bowstrings can further enhance its longevity and protect it from the elements. There are no apparent failure points; the sealed serving and the inherent strength of the BCY-X material suggest a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular product, the Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit, is a complete set designed for direct replacement. It comes with both the main bowstring and the split cable specifically measured and constructed for the Mathews Z7 Extreme. There are no additional accessories included with this specific kit.
Customization in this context refers to the color options often available from manufacturers like Winners Choice, though specific color choices aren’t detailed here. The primary “customization” is the precise fit for the intended bow model, ensuring optimal performance without needing further adjustments beyond standard tuning. This focused approach means the kit is ready to install and perform.
Pros and Cons of Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit
Pros
- Precise fit for Mathews Z7 Extreme, ensuring optimal performance.
- Constructed from high-quality BCY-X material, known for its durability and low stretch.
- Promotes a smooth draw cycle and consistent arrow flight.
- Excellent reliability and minimal creep after proper installation and settling.
- Designed for long-term use with proper care.
Cons
- Premium price point of $119.99 may be higher than some alternatives.
- Specific to one bow model (Mathews Z7 Extreme), limiting broader application.
Who Should Buy Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit?
This Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit is an ideal choice for any archer who owns a Mathews Z7 Extreme and prioritizes consistent, reliable performance. If you’re a serious bowhunter or a competitive target archer who demands the best from your equipment, this kit is a worthwhile investment.
However, if you own a different bow model or are on a very tight budget and don’t mind potentially more frequent replacements or slight performance compromises, you might consider other options. For those with the Z7 Extreme, investing in a high-quality string and cable set like this will undoubtedly enhance the shooting experience. Essential complementary items would include a quality bow press for installation and a bow square and chronograph for precise tuning.
Conclusion on Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit
The Winners Choice FirstString Premium String Kit delivers exactly what it promises: a high-performance replacement string and cable set specifically tailored for the Mathews Z7 Extreme. The use of BCY-X material and the precise manufacturing evident in the length and serving quality translate directly into a noticeably smoother draw, consistent arrow flight, and long-term reliability. While the $119.99 price tag places it in the premium category, the performance gains and durability it offers justify the investment for dedicated archers. For owners of the Mathews Z7 Extreme seeking to restore or enhance their bow’s performance with a top-tier string system, I wholeheartedly recommend this kit. It’s a clear choice for those who value precision, longevity, and a superior shooting experience.