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There’s no doubt that as a recreational sport, archery is extremely popular around the world. Going back to its origin, you need to keep in mind the equipment needed – a bow and arrows. So, it is clear that archery originated chiefly to cater to the needs of the hunters. Later, bows and arrows were introduced as a weapon and continued to be in use in warfare until the firearms were developed. Today, these are used extensively in archery, which has acquired the form of an extremely competitive sport.

Getting new arrows and bows is super exciting, especially if you are an enthusiastic archer. But you need to store them properly and take adequate care. And it’s the bows that need maximum maintenance. Here are some ways to take proper care of your bows.

Recurve, compound, and the longbows are comparatively low maintenance items. Taking adequate care of bows will allow you to keep it functioning for long. String wax and basic oils are a necessity here.

• Wood Bow Upkeep

Wood retains a traditional feel and look preferred by most archers. Most of them come with a protective finish, though some leave the wood exposed too. For proper maintenance, wipe bows with wood oil a few times every year. Moreover, you can also remove bowstring if the bow will not be in use for quite some time. This brings down stress and preserves flexibility. Make sure to avoid contact with water and dry down the bow if it is ever used in wet conditions.

• Compound Bow Maintenance

Laminate used on the compound and the recurve bow does not need too much care. Make sure to keep the material dry and clean as long as possible. The moving part of these compound bows need more work. Apply a few drops of lubricant if you hear squeaking sounds. Look for dirt buildup around the moving parts. If you find anything, get rid of it using a toothpick. Apply wax to bowstring a few times every year; replace it every other year if you are a heavy user and every third year if you are a light to moderate user.

• Proper Firing Care

The most difficult part of bow care comes with field usage. Hold the bow on your side with the strings right under your armpit. Fire bows only with an arrow on string. Remember that dry firing can snap the string.

Now let us have a look at the ways to store and transport bows.

Thankfully, there are various options available for these. Always remember that while you are traveling with your bow, never leave it inside hot cars or in damp areas like garage, shed, or the basement. Persistent moisture and extreme temperatures can damage bows. Instead, keep it stored in a safe and secure place.

So where do you store your bow?

1. Soft Case

Usually made with heavy duty fabric and lined with foam, these are perfect for the recurve, compound, and the takedown bows. The shape of the case depends upon the type of bow that you own and the things that you need to carry while traveling. Most prefer to purchase an arrow tube and pack the bow alongside if there is adequate room in the case.

2. Backpack Case

You will probably prefer this if you shoot takedown recurve. The very essence of portability, they allow to pack:

• Riser
• Limbs
• Arrow tube
• Other accessories

The benefits include portability and durability, apart from the ease to carry them. They are perfect for public transportation as well. Remember not to carry them on airplanes since they do not offer any hard protection. It will fail to offer protection in case something hard crashes against it.

3. Hard Case

This is the best option for the recurve and the compound shooters who are eager to ensure adequate protection for their accessories. Most hard cases are made using high-density plastic that can endure fair amounts of dropping as well as stacking of items atop. If you are a recreational shooter, you may not need the hard cases at all or one hard case will be sufficient for you. If you compete regularly, consider double cases that can accommodate a backup, along with the primary bow.

4. Other Storage Considerations

Most hard cases include foam inserts that are possible to cut as well as customize for accommodating your gear. However, if you purchase quality equipment, you will find that some accessories come with a case of its own. Here, you need to decide if you want to drag extra cases or squeeze everything in a single case. You will be better off if you keep your things together. It’s easy to misplace things otherwise. You just need a tackle box to hold the nocks, wrenches, glue, screws and other tools. While choosing a case for trips, make sure to opt for ones that have enough room to pack all the equipment.

With these simple steps in mind, you are all set to protect your bows in the best possible manner.

Emily Smith, a freelance writer, an expert in writing quality content on unique sports, for popular online publications. Archery interests her most. She receives professional training from archery texas.