I was given a compound bow that looks to be in great shape but has not been used in a few years. I’m wondering if the string is still usable. Do these fail often?

Short answer? Yes.

If it hasn't been used "in a few years", put a new string on it. Trust me, you do not want a string to fail on you. It ain't pretty.

Should be a lot of good archery shops where you are so have the cables replaced professionally.

I would also have the string changed and at the same time have the bow adjusted to you.

Jim

Yes strings can go bad. They need to be waxed regularly and can dry rot. It would be good insurance to get them replaced.

A string lasts one to two years, max. Changing the string usually costs about 30 bucks. Cables are completely different. They should be inspected for wear. An archery shop can take care of both issues for you. Also the adjustment to your length of draw, and, if adjusted, set to your preferred weight. BTW, what brand is it?

Yes they deffinately can go bad.... Even new strings can fail.... Once during a competition shoot event while at full draw prior to arrow release the string exploded/broke.. (85 lb draw weight).. Scared the living daylights out of me. Lucky no physical injuries to me but the bow had to be sent back to factory for repairs......... Strings must be kept waxed to keep the string supple to have a longer use life. Never release a bow string at full draw without a arrow on the string.... One of the reasons some archery shops keep the bows caged is to keep unknowning customers from drawing bow and releasing sting without a arrow on string which causes undue stresses on the bow as well as the string...... drill sgt.

Yep ,replace ,wax helps in the maintance department.
When I hunted my bows were taken to my pro shop.
Last thing I wanted was a limb smashing me in the face.

quote:

Originally posted by 45 Cal:
Yep ,replace ,wax helps in the maintance department.
When I hunted my bows were taken to my pro shop.
Last thing I wanted was a limb smashing me in the face.

A limb would smash you in the face if you maintained the bow yourself rather than taking it to your pro shop? Hm…