How To Tie A D Loop. Step By Step.

In this article we will look at how to tie a d loop on a bow string. Before we get started, here is some information, advantages and drawbacks on using the d loop.

Why should I use a d loop and what are the advantages?

 A d loop is used with a release aid device and compound bow.

For target archers and bowhunters, a d loop can help increase accuracy.  It does this by being the go between the bow string and release aid device. This helps by reducing torque directly on the bowstring.

As the jaws or rope of the release aid are ideally directly behind the arrow, can help with a cleaner release.  As opposed to clipping the release aid device directly on the string, under the arrow. This setup might put vertical pressure on the string and arrow.

A d loop in theory, should also make bow tuning easier.

The d loop can help reduce bowstring wear.

Before d loops become popular, the early release aid devices were connected straight on the bowstring. The metal jaws of the release device would wear the bowstring.

A worn d loop is cheaper, quicker and easier to replace then a whole bowstring.

You can also slightly lengthen the d loop to suit your style, form and shooting style and release aid device.

Compared to connecting a metal jawed release device on a bowstring, which can squash the hard plastic arrow nock and make a noise. The d loop is quieter.

With a little bit of practice you can change a d loop in the field.

 

The disadvantages of a d loop?

For bowhunting, connecting the release aid to the small d loop is a lot slower and harder to clip on. Especially if under pressure. As an example seeing a big trophy buck.

(Some bowhunters when using a “T” handle style release device, (Not a wrist strap design.) keep it clipped on the d loop, when in the tree stand or hunting blind.)

Another item on your bow, can possible mean another item to fail.

Although the weight probably wouldn’t weigh much more than a noc set, it is extra weight and stuff on the string.

A lot of compound archers have set their bows draw length (Or haven’t adjusted it.) too long. By attaching a long d loop, they make their draw length way too long. (Technically the bows draw length hasn’t changed.)

 

What d loop material should I use?

BCY d loop cord, or Brownell release rope are ideal. Avoid using low quality cord as it might break or wear quicker.

Some cheap brand cordage may be too soft and not hold its shape. Also too stiff of material may torque the bowstring when at full draw.

Bowhunters might prefer a slightly stiffer d-loop material, so they can place the release aid device on the loop quicker if they spot game.

Compound target archers may prefer a softer d-loop material, as it might reduce torque a little bit more.

 

How to tie a d loop.

There are several ways to construct a d loop. Such as; tie the loop on the bowstring and then cut and burn it.

However, the following method is bow string safe.

Use a candle or lighter to burn one end of the material. Be careful not to let it catch on fire or burn it for too long, as it will weaken the material.

(You cut and burn both ends, however you may lose some length in the burning process, so it may be best to burn one end then measure.)

 

 

 

While the cord is hot, use a teaspoon or the flat side of a broadhead to help fuzz and ball the d loop end.

Ideally the end should be like a mushroom and twice the size of the cord so the knot doesn’t slip off.

 

How long should my d loop be? Measure and cut around 4 1/2 inches (11.43 cm) or longer, from the ball end.

This length will depend on your release aid design, arrow nock length, extra nock sets and shooting style preference.

It might appear a bit short for a start, but will tighten and lengthen.

Tip – For practicing the knot, you might have the material around 5 inches or more, too make it easier to tie.

 

Burn and fuzz the other end of the d loop.

 

Use bow string wax to rub on the d loop, as this will help it hold in place better.

 

 

 

 

Double the material over and place under the bow string.

With the two loose ends thread back into the loop.

 

 

 

 

Pull up one end so it tightens on itself and make sure the ball doesn’t slip through.

Place the other end under the bow string.

Thread the end through the loop.

Place it back over the string.

 

 

Thread it under and through the left side, pulling firmly to position the mushroom or ball end so it also tightens on itself. This end knot should be facing the opposite direction from the other knot, as this will lessen the chance of the knot slipping, as it tightens on itself.

 

Note – Before you tighten the d loop make sure that it is in the correct position for the setup, arrow and arrow rest.

Some people use a marker and bow square to help find the correct location on the bowstring.

Check the ball end knots are through enough so they don’t slip.

 

 

Tighten the d loop firmly with the round back of pointy nose pliers or a release aid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Triple check the knot before firing. For the first few shots, don’t draw back close towards your face, check the D Loop is secure.

 

D loop tips.

As the natural  shapes of the face is angled down,  have the top d loop knot out to the side more. Away from the face. The bottom knot is closer to the bottom of the jaw. probably a minor point, but the d loop might fit the shape of the face better. Also wearing a face veil, makes the bowstring / d loop maybe less chance of interfering with the shot.

Some archers use glue on the d loop knot for extra security. If you have a good knot and mushroom end, you don’t need the glue.

Also it is not recommended to put any glue on directly on the bowstring as the glue can dry hard.

If the glue dries hard between the string strands and fibers, it can rub on the bowstring. This might eventually damage the string as the individual fibers are being stretched and move slightly independent of each other.

Another negative of glue is, if you have to replace the loop, it makes harder to get off the bowstring.

Make sure you check your d loop regularly for wear and replace it when needed.

Have one or two extra pre-cut and burned ends out in the field or range. Know how to tie the d loop.

The d loop material might be a bright color, so it is easy to see and clip the release device on.

For more information on taking care of your bowstring and FAQ, click on Bowstrings

Conclusion.

The d loop gives the compound archer some advantages, like reducing bow string torque and potentially improving accuracy.

A d loop helps reduce bowstring wear, if a release aid device is used.

Suitable d loop material from a reputable manufacture should be used.

Knowing how to tie a d loop on a bow string in the field or range is important, in case it fails or needs replacing.