
Crossbows are a very user-friendly type of bow.
They are extremely easy to load and shoot, but there is one thing about them that can be a little bit challenging – changing the strings.
This can prove to be a little bit of a challenge because in most cases you will not have access to a press.
Thankfully, it’s not as hard as you might think. I will discuss some ways in which you can change your crossbow string without using a press.
What is a Crossbow String Press?

A crossbow string press is a special device that is used to hold down the strings while you change them. The crossbow string press is actually pretty easy to make yourself.
You can use a simple vise with a screw that uses the string as a spring to hold it down. Another option is to use a small bench press. If you have access to a friend who owns a press, that might be the easiest option.
With a press, all you really need to do is follow the same technique used when using a standard bow press. But if you don’t own a press and you don’t have a friend who does, then you are in luck.
There are a few different ways in which you can change your crossbow strings without a press.
Steps Involved in changing crossbow strings without a bow press
Step 1: Find the Right Length

When changing your crossbow string, you will first need to find the right length. You will want to find the right length in order to avoid having the string be too short or too long, which can lead to problems with your crossbow.
The best way to find the right length is to check your manual to see what length the original string was. If you don’t have your manual, you can also find the right length online.
Once you know what length the original string was, you can then use a measuring tape to find the right length for you.
You will want to make sure that you get the right length, as a too-short or too-long string can cause problems with your crossbow.
Step 2: Remove the Old String

Once you know what length is right for you, you will then need to remove the old string. You can do this using the same method you would use to remove the string on your standard bow.
Using a bow string loop tool is the best way to do this. Once you have removed the old string, you will want to attach the new string.
You can do this by first placing the loop tool through one end of the string, then draping the string over the limb of your crossbow. You can then put the other end of the string through the loop tool and pull it tight.
You will also want to make sure that you are careful not to over-tighten the crossbow string. Over-tightening the string can cause damage to your bow, which can result in costly repairs.
Step 3: Attach the New String
Once you have removed the old string, you will then want to attach the new string. You can do this by first placing the loop tool through one end of the string, then draping the string over the limb of your crossbow.

You can then put the other end of the string through the loop tool and pull it tight. You will also want to make sure that you are careful not to over-tighten the crossbow string. Over-tightening the string can cause damage to your bow, which can result in costly repairs.
After you have attached the new string, you should then test your crossbow to make sure it is working properly. You will want to make sure that the string is not too tight or too loose, as a string that is too tight or too loose can cause problems with your crossbow.
Methods to Change Your Crossbow Strings Without a Press
If you’ve ever tried to change the strings on a crossbow before you may have noticed that there are no stirrup holes. This is because they don’t use the same type of string as a standard bow. They use a much thicker string that is actually anchored to the bow using special hooks on each end.

First, you need to loosen your current string so that it’s nice and loose, but not so loose that it falls off. This will allow you to remove it without too much effort.
Next, you need to slide the hooks off the ends of the string. You can do this by hand, but it may be a little bit easier if you use pliers. Once you’ve removed the hooks from the string you can simply pull the old string off the bow and put the new one on.
Using The Hook Method
If you don’t have pliers or vice grips available, you can use the hook method. The hook method will work best if you have a shorter string.

The main thing you need to do is push the string into the holes on the bowstring and then bend the string at an angle. This will hold the string in place while you remove the old string and put the new one on.
This method will work best if you have a string that is looped through the holes like normal. If your string is knotted, you can still use this method, but it may take a little bit longer.
Using A Rubber Band

If you don’t have the option of using a longer string, you can use a rubber band to hold the string in place while you remove the old string and put the new one on.
This method is used in a similar way to the one where you push the string into the holes on the bowstring. You want to loop your string through the holes at the end of the bow and then loop the rubber band around it.
You can then push the rubber band into the holes on the other side of the bowstring. This is a little bit challenging because you will have to push the rubber band through the holes by hand. It’s definitely doable but will take a little bit more time than the previous methods.
Using Vice Grip Pliers

This method works very similarly to the one where you push the string into the holes on the bowstring. The one difference is you are going to loop your string through the holes on the opposite side of the bowstring.
Again, you can use any type of string to do this, but it works best with a shorter string. Once you have your string looped through the holes, you can use the pliers to push the string along the edge of the bowstring.
This will hold it in place while you remove the old string and put the new one on. This is a very simple method that doesn’t require too much skill or effort. It should be relatively easy to use.
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on tools to change your crossbow strings. If you have a few simple tools lying around the house or if you make use of a few household items, you can easily change the strings on your bow without a press.
If you’ve ever changed the strings on a crossbow, then you know that it can be a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, there are a few different ways in which you can go about doing it without a press.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change your own crossbow string?
Yes, you can change your crossbow string, however, there are a few things to keep in mind when doing so. First, you need to make sure that the new string fits onto your crossbow. Second, you will likely need to replace the nock on the end of the string with one that fits your bow. Third, be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installing your new string. Finally, always be careful when handling crossbow strings, as they can be quite dangerous if not handled properly.
Can I use a ratchet strap as a bow press?
Yes, you can certainly use a ratchet strap as a bow press, but it is not the best tool for the job. A ratchet strap is great for tensioning bows on flat surfaces, but it can cause damage to the limbs of your bow and is used to press on an angle in the nock groove.
A better option is to use a bow press kit, which comes with everything you need for excellent results. A bow press kit will include soft washers and bushings to protect your bow from damage, as well as a hand-crank or lever-action press that will evenly distribute pressure across the surface of your bow.
How many shots is a crossbow string good for?
The life of a crossbow string all depends on the quality of the string, your shooting style, and your bow’s draw weight.
If you are a relatively new crossbow hunter or archer, or if you have a light crossbow, you can expect to get at least 50 shots out of a crossbow string.
While if you have a heavy draw weight, a powerful crossbow, or your shooting style is aggressive, you may get only 10-20 shots out of it before you need to change it.
But if the quality of the string is good, it can last over 100 shots.