First Impressions of Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981
The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is a staple in the traditional archery world. Brownell, a respected name in archery supplies, offers this material as a reliable and affordable option for crafting bowstrings. It promises durability and consistency, two critical factors for any archer, whether a seasoned traditional shooter or a newcomer.
As someone who has spent years tinkering with bows and arrows, both modern compounds and traditional longbows, I was drawn to the B50 because of its reputation for being forgiving and easy to work with. My current project involves restoring an old recurve bow for a friend, and the B50 seemed like the perfect material to create a string that would be both durable and comfortable for him to use.
Upon receiving the 1/4 lb spool of B50 in red, my initial impression was positive. The material felt substantial and well-made, with a smooth texture that hinted at its abrasion resistance. Compared to more modern string materials like BCY-X or 452X, the B50 feels less high-tech, but its simplicity and proven track record are exactly what I was looking for. Other options I considered were Dacron string materials from various manufacturers, but I chose the Brownell B50 due to its trusted brand reputation and competitive price point.
I was excited to get started and see how it performed in the bowstring making process. My initial thoughts were that this was a reliable, no-frills option, but the real test would be in its performance on the bow.
Real-World Testing: Putting Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 involved creating a Flemish twist bowstring for the restored recurve bow. This process took place in my workshop, allowing for controlled conditions and precise measurements.
The material was easy to work with; it didn’t fray excessively while twisting, which is a common issue with cheaper string materials. I found it easy to adjust the strands for the desired brace height, and the finished string looked clean and professional. After installing the string on the bow, I took it to my backyard range for some initial testing. The weather was mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and dry.
The B50 performed admirably. While not as fast as some of the modern materials, it provided a smooth and consistent shooting experience with minimal stretch. There were no immediate signs of wear or fraying after several dozen shots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Brownell B50 string continues to perform well. I have put hundreds of arrows through the bow with this string, and it still maintains its integrity. The red color has remained vibrant, showing no signs of fading.
I have noticed very minimal stretching since the initial setup. This is a testament to the quality of the material. Maintaining the string is simple; I apply a light coat of bowstring wax every few shooting sessions. This keeps the fibers lubricated and prevents excessive wear.
In comparison to previous experiences with cheaper Dacron strings, the B50 is noticeably more durable and consistent. It holds its shape better and requires less frequent adjustments. While it might not offer the ultimate performance of modern, high-performance strings, its reliability and ease of use make it an excellent choice for traditional archery.
Breaking Down the Features of Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981
Specifications
The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is constructed of 100% polyester. It is sold in a 1/4 lb spool. The spool’s color is red. Brownell lists the additional features as 1/4 lb.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the bowstring’s performance, durability, and suitability for traditional bows. The polyester construction ensures abrasion resistance and longevity. This makes the B50 a reliable choice for archers who want a string that can withstand repeated use and varying weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and consistent connection between the archer and the bow. While it may not deliver the lightning-fast arrow speeds of modern bowstrings, it offers a smooth and forgiving shooting experience. Its greatest strength is its ease of use; both during the string-making process and during shooting.
One area where it could be improved is its resistance to stretch. Though minimal, some stretching is to be expected with polyester materials. Overall, the B50 meets expectations for a traditional bowstring material.
Design & Ergonomics
The Brownell B50 is designed for simplicity and functionality. The material’s smooth texture and pliable nature make it easy to work with. This makes it comfortable to handle and manipulate when creating bowstrings. The weight is negligible once the string is installed, and the red color adds a touch of visual appeal without being distracting.
There is no learning curve associated with using B50. Anyone familiar with bowstring making will find it straightforward and easy to work with.
Durability & Maintenance
The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is known for its longevity. It’s designed to withstand repeated use and resist abrasion. With proper care, a B50 string can last for a long time.
Maintenance is simple. Regular waxing with bowstring wax will keep the fibers lubricated and prevent premature wear. No specialized tools or knowledge are required for maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Brownell B50 itself doesn’t come with accessories, as it is a raw material. However, it can be easily customized with string silencers. These can reduce noise and vibration. It is compatible with various serving materials used to reinforce the string loops.
Popular serving materials include nylon and Spectra. These are used to create durable and protective layers around the string’s loops.
Pros and Cons of Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981
Pros
- The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is very easy to work with when making strings.
- It is a durable material. The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is resistant to abrasion.
- B50 provides a forgiving and smooth shooting experience. This is ideal for traditional archery.
- The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is a relatively affordable option.
- It is a reliable material backed by the trusted Brownell name.
Cons
- The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is not as fast as modern string materials.
- It experiences some stretch over time. This may require brace height adjustments.
Who Should Buy Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981?
The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is perfect for traditional archers. This includes those shooting longbows, recurve bows, and selfbows. It is also ideal for those who enjoy making their own bowstrings. The B50 is excellent for beginners learning the craft.
Those seeking maximum arrow speed or using compound bows should skip this product. They should instead opt for modern high-performance string materials. Must-have accessories include bowstring wax and serving thread.
Conclusion on Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981
The Brownell B50 Bowstring Material 1206981 is a dependable and affordable choice for traditional archers. While it might not offer the cutting-edge performance of modern materials, its reliability, ease of use, and durability make it a solid option. The price is justified, considering its longevity and consistent performance.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a no-frills, reliable bowstring material for traditional archery. If you value simplicity, durability, and a smooth shooting experience, the Brownell B50 is an excellent choice. Give it a try and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own bowstrings with a time-tested material.