The First String Pro Slide – Blue Made a Bold First Impression
The First String Pro Slide – Blue promises to be a simple yet effective solution for archers seeking to reduce cable wear and eliminate annoying cable slide chatter. Manufactured by First String, this unassuming blue slide boasts a hole for fall-away rest cord integration and a set screw for secure attachment. My journey to find this product started with a nagging problem: premature cable wear on my trusty hunting bow.
I’ve been a dedicated bowhunter for over a decade, and the constant wear and tear on cables has always been a concern. I was specifically seeking a cable slide that could minimize friction and extend the life of my bowstrings. The First String Pro Slide – Blue seemed to offer a practical solution, so I decided to give it a try.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of understated quality. The blue polymer material felt durable and well-made, and the inclusion of the set screw was a nice touch. It’s lightweight and compact; a good sign for something that shouldn’t affect the bow’s balance.
I considered a few other options, including aftermarket slides with rollers and Teflon coatings. I ultimately chose the First String Pro Slide – Blue because of its simplicity and the promise of direct compatibility with my fall-away rest. I wanted a no-nonsense solution that wouldn’t break the bank.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if this small, inexpensive component could live up to its promise of reducing cable wear and silencing my bow. The design seemed straightforward and functional, leaving me hopeful for a noticeable improvement.
Real-World Testing: Putting First String Pro Slide – Blue to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the First String Pro Slide – Blue during my regular archery practice sessions at my local outdoor range. The weather conditions were typical for late summer: warm and dry with a slight breeze. Installation was incredibly simple, taking only a few minutes with an Allen wrench to secure the set screw.
The most immediate difference was the noticeable reduction in cable slide noise. That characteristic twang I used to hear at full draw was significantly dampened. It felt smoother during the draw cycle and the release, and it provided a more pleasant shooting experience overall.
There were no initial issues after my first-time use. The slide remained securely attached, and I didn’t notice any adverse effects on my bow’s performance. The elimination of cable chatter was a very welcome surprise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the First String Pro Slide – Blue continues to perform reliably. I’ve put hundreds of arrows downrange with this slide installed, and it still feels and looks like new. There are no visible signs of wear or tear on the slide itself.
Maintenance has been a breeze; I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth every few shooting sessions to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. The polymer material seems to be holding up very well to the constant friction and flexing. Compared to my previous experiences with other cable slides, this one is proving to be more durable and requires less maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of First String Pro Slide – Blue
Specifications
The First String Pro Slide – Blue is designed to eliminate cable slide chatter and decrease wear on cables. It incorporates a hole for a fall away rest cord to be inserted and a set screw to secure the cord. The product retails for $9.49.
These specifications matter because they address common issues experienced by archers. Cable chatter can be distracting and affect accuracy, while cable wear can lead to costly replacements. The fall-away rest cord integration ensures compatibility with popular rest systems, while the low price makes it accessible to a broad range of archers.
Performance & Functionality
The First String Pro Slide – Blue performs its job admirably. It effectively reduces cable wear and eliminates unwanted cable chatter. The smoother draw cycle translates to improved consistency and accuracy.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. However, its straightforward design is also its limitation. It does not offer the same level of advanced features that you would expect from premium aftermarket slides (roller bearings or advanced materials).
It meets my expectations as a basic, functional cable slide that delivers on its core promises. It is not a game-changer, but it is a solid upgrade over a worn-out or poorly designed stock slide.
Design & Ergonomics
The First String Pro Slide – Blue is made from a durable polymer material that feels solid in hand. The blue color is visually appealing. The lightweight design ensures that it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the bow.
Its design is user-friendly with no real learning curve. The installation is self-explanatory, and the set screw makes for a secure attachment. Anyone with basic archery knowledge can easily install and use this slide.
Durability & Maintenance
The First String Pro Slide – Blue feels like it will last for a considerable time. The polymer material is resistant to abrasion and impact. Its simple design means there are no moving parts to break or wear out.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth. This is a low-maintenance component that requires no special tools or skills to keep in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The First String Pro Slide – Blue doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the set screw. However, its design is compatible with a wide range of fall-away arrow rests.
It is a standalone component that doesn’t require or offer many customization options. Its strength lies in its plug-and-play functionality and compatibility with existing archery setups.
Pros and Cons of First String Pro Slide – Blue
Pros
- Significantly reduces cable slide noise and eliminates cable chatter.
- Helps extend cable life and reduces wear.
- Very easy to install and maintain.
- Inexpensive; fantastic value for the price.
- Lightweight design doesn’t negatively affect bow balance.
Cons
- Basic design lacks advanced features like roller bearings.
- Polymer material, while durable, may not be as high-performance as some premium alternatives.
Who Should Buy First String Pro Slide – Blue?
The First String Pro Slide – Blue is perfect for archers of all skill levels who want to reduce cable noise and extend cable life without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for hunters who need a quiet bow for stealthy shots. This is a solid upgrade for beginner and intermediate archers.
Those who should skip this product are competitive shooters seeking every incremental performance gain and those who prefer high-end components with advanced features. They should look at more expensive slides.
A must-have modification is to ensure the set screw is properly tightened to prevent slippage. Adding a small amount of Teflon tape to the set screw threads can further enhance its grip and prevent loosening over time.
Conclusion on First String Pro Slide – Blue
The First String Pro Slide – Blue is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for archers seeking to improve their bow’s performance and longevity. It delivers on its promise of reducing cable noise and wear and is incredibly easy to install and maintain.
At a price point of just $9.49, the value proposition is outstanding. It’s a small investment that can significantly enhance your archery experience.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the First String Pro Slide – Blue to any archer looking for a reliable and cost-effective cable slide. Give it a try; you will be impressed with the results!