Archery Gear Maintenance: How to Look After Your Bow and Arrows

Jaypee A • November 21, 2025

Every archer knows that archery isn’t just about hitting the target—it's about discipline, focus, and self-awareness. Interestingly, the same care you give to your bow and arrows mirrors the care you give to yourself. When you take the time to maintain your gear, you’re also building habits of consistency, patience, and respect for the craft. At Atlanta Archery Club, we believe that archery gear maintenance is not just about equipment—it's part of your growth as an archer.

1. Why Gear Maintenance Matters

Think of your bow and arrows like your own mind and body. When you feel worn out, stressed, or unprepared, it shows in your performance. Your equipment is the same.

  • A neglected bow loses strength and accuracy.
  • A damaged arrow can break under pressure.
  • A poorly maintained string can snap at the wrong moment.

Taking a few minutes to care for your gear is like taking time to rest, prepare, and reset. It keeps you safe, balanced, and ready.

2. Bow Maintenance

Your bow is your partner—it responds to how well you look after it.

Just as you check in with yourself before a busy day, check in with your bow before shooting:

  • Look for any signs of strain on the bowstring or cables.
  • Notice if the limbs show cracks or unusual wear.
  • Make sure all screws and bolts are tightened, just like making sure you’re mentally “locked in.”
  • For compound bows, ensure cams move smoothly—like keeping your own movements steady and controlled.

Keeping your bow clean is like keeping your mind clear.


  • Wipe away dirt, dust, and moisture after every use.
  • Dry it off after exposure to rain or humidity.

  • Store it away from heat and extreme temperatures—just like you avoid burnout by staying in the right environment.

A well-waxed string is like moisturized skin—protected, flexible, and durable.

  • Apply wax regularly.
  • Check for fraying or loose serving.
  • Make small adjustments before small issues turn into big ones.

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3. Arrow Care

Your arrows reflect direction and purpose—just like your own goals.

Before each session, take time to examine each arrow:

  • Look for cracks or dents.
  • Ensure fletching is fully attached and aligned—similar to keeping your thoughts organized.
  • Make sure nocks are secure and points are tight.

Broken arrows remind us that running ahead without checking ourselves can lead to setbacks.

A clean arrow flies straighter—just like a clear mind brings focus.

  • Clean shafts gently after each session.
  • Let wooden arrows breathe with a protective coat.
  • Store arrows upright to keep them straight and true.

4. Storage and Transportation

How you store your equipment says a lot about how you treat yourself when no one’s looking.

  • Use a bow case to protect your gear, the same way you protect your peace.
  • Keep everything in cool, dry spaces.
  • Unstring traditional bows during long breaks to relieve tension—just like giving yourself time to recharge.

5. Maintenance Schedule and Checklist

Before each session: quick self-checks and gear checks.
After each session: clean up your equipment and clear your mind.
Monthly: deeper care, tightening, and adjustments.
Annually: a full tune-up—just like stepping back to reflect on your growth as an archer.

6. Safety and Best Practices

Treat unsafe gear the way you treat unhealthy habits: let them go.

  • Never shoot with damaged equipment.
  • Adjust only with proper tools or guidance.
  • Keep a simple log so you can track your progress and maintenance.

When you care for your bow and arrows, you’re also caring for yourself. Every inspection, every wipe-down, every wax application is a small reminder that consistency, patience, and mindfulness make you a better archer—and a stronger individual.


At Atlanta Archery Club, we encourage you to treat your gear with the same respect you give your craft. Because when your equipment is balanced, protected, and well-cared for—you will be, too.

Meet Yale, Nogin

Head Coach NTS Level 4 

Yale Nogin, Head Coach and founder of Atlanta Archery Club, has 35+ years of archery experience and 8 years of teaching. A USA Archery NTS Level 4 Coach, he blends archery with chiropractic and yoga, inspiring all ages to develop lifelong skills.

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