Picture and Steps Source – Merlin Archery
Step 1 – Identify the top an bottom limbs.
The bottom limb will have the bow weight and length written near the butt of the limb. This is the bottom limb.
Step 2 – Attaching the limbs.
Remove the limb bolts and slide the bottom limb into the bottom limb pocket. Thread the limb bolt through the hole and tighten.
Repeat with the top limb.
When assembling your limbs to the handle, do not over tighten the limb bolts. A snug fit is all that is required. Over tightening could damage your limbs.
Step 3 – Fitting the string.
Loop one end of the bow string completely over the top limb tip and slide approximately 1/4 of the way down the limb. One end of the string may have a larger loop than the other. If this is the case, the largest loop should be fitted over the limb tip.
Step 4
Twist the string approximately 10 full turns and fit the bottom string loop over the bottom limb tip so it fits snuggly around the limb tip. This end of the string should remain on the limb tip and lie on the inside face of the limb. (The same side as where the long narrow groove has been ground into the surface)
Step 5 – The bow stringer.
Push the pouch end of the bow stringer onto the bottom limb tip, trapping the bow string into position around the limb tip.
Step 6
Loop the ‘saddle’ end of the bow stringer over the top limb tip. Slide the bow string as far up the top limb as possible, and rest the ‘saddle’ just below the string on the side nearest the centre of the bow.
<——– Your bow should now look like this
Step 7 – Flexing the limbs.
With one hand, hold the bow handle around the centre.
With the other hand, pinch the saddle firmly to the top limb, ensuring it is as far up the limb as possible, but below the string loop.
With one foot treading on the cord of the bow stringer, and your hand still firmly pinching the saddle, raise the bow handle to bend the limbs.
When the limbs are bent enough to allow the string to reach the top limb tip, let go of the saddle and use that hand to slide the top string loop up the limb and fit it around the top limb tip. Once you are sure the string is fitted securely, slowly relax the bow and remove the bow stringer.
Step 8 – Inspection
Inspect both limb tips BEFORE drawing the bow to ensure that the string loops are securely fixed around the limb tips.
To disassemble the bow, use the same procedure in reverse.