Setting up a compound bow requires installing accessories, adjusting draw length and cam timing, then paper tuning for straight, accurate arrow flight.
Mount the rest, sight, and peep, set your draw length, sync the cams, and fine-tune with paper. Each step builds on the prior; doing them in order saves rework. If you are still shopping, our guide to the best compound bows under $500 will help you choose a model worth setting up.
What Tools Do You Need to Set Up a Compound Bow?
You will need a bow press and vise, draw board, full set of Allen keys, bow square, serving material, D-loop pliers, a lighter, scissors, and a razor blade. Blue threadlocker is optional. Never remove strings or adjust cam timing without a bow press — stored energy can cause serious injury. New shooters should start at roughly 15 pounds draw weight to build proper form. Verify brace height and axle-to-axle length match factory specs before proceeding.
| Tool | What It’s Used For |
|---|---|
| Bow press | Relieves string tension for cam and string work |
| Bow vise | Holds the bow steady while you mount accessories |
| Draw board | Lets you crank the bow back to check cam timing |
| Allen keys | Mount sights, rests, and adjust modules |
| Bow square | Checks 90° angles for nock height and arrow level |
| Serving material | Ties nocking points and secures the peep sight |
| D-loop pliers | Crimps and tightens D-loop material |
Installing Accessories: Rest, Sight, Peep, and D-Loop
Get the bow perfectly level in the vise before mounting anything. A level bow is the foundation every accessory depends on.
Arrow Rest
Mount the rest to the riser first. For center-shot, look down the string from behind; the arrow should split the string and line up with the cam groove. Use a bow square to confirm the arrow sits level or slightly high, roughly 90° to the string.
Sight and Stabilizer
Install the sight and stabilizer next. Ensure the sight is level; a ratchet delivers more consistent torque than a handheld Allen wrench.
Peep Sight
Find the marker on the string indicating ideal peep position. Split strands, insert the peep, and draw to settle it. Add or remove twists so it aligns naturally at full draw, then tie it in with dental floss or serving thread.
Nocking Point and D-Loop
Verify vertical level with a bow square, then tie soft knots above and below the arrow — typically three per side — leaving a small gap for the nock. For the D-loop, fray one end and burn it to create a bead. Pull the top end until the bead contacts the string, wrap over the string, and tighten with pliers. Check the finished loop does not pull the arrow up or down.
Draw Length, Cam Timing, and Paper Tuning
Set draw length via the cam modules, following your owner’s manual. Draw length modules are model-specific, so consulting the manual — Bear Archery provides product manuals for current and past bows online — is essential.
Cam Timing
With the bow on a draw board, crank it until just before cable stops touch cables. Both cams must hit their stops simultaneously. If the top cam hits first, add a twist to the cable on that cam; if bottom hits first, twist the opposite cable. Only adjust the cable-stop side of the cam, never the yoked side.
Paper Tuning
If broadheads hit right of the field point, move the rest left; if left, move right. Continue making small adjustments until the arrow punches a clean, round hole. Walk-back tuning can further fine-tune vertical and horizontal axes.
FAQs
Do I really need a bow press to set up a compound bow?
Yes, for any work involving strings or cams. A bow press relieves limb tension safely; attempting string work without one risks bow damage or personal injury.
What is the most common mistake beginners make during setup?
Failing to level the bow in the vise before mounting the rest. An unlevel bow throws off every alignment check and leads to inconsistent arrow flight.
How do I know my cam timing is correct?
When drawn on a draw board, both cams should contact their stops at the same instant. If one hits earlier, a single twist to the cable on that side usually synchronizes them.
References & Sources
- Bear Archery. Product Manuals Official manuals with factory specs for current and past bow models.
- Bowhunting.com. How to Setup a Compound Bow Step-by-step guide covering accessory installation and tuning.
- Game & Fish Magazine. Setting Up a Compound Bow: You Can Do This Practical advice for DIY bow setup and tuning.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
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