Tuning and setup

Change draw length and let-off: Discovery

On the Discovery, draw length comes from which hole the draw-length axle sits in, and let-off from the draw stop set screws. Every axle move needs a draw stop reset, or the bow can lock at full draw. Read the whole guide first.

  • Difficulty Advanced
  • Time 45–90 minutes
  • For 1 Oneida model

Oneida Discovery, plus FireBrand-built Discoveries.

All how-to guides

We're still double-checking this guide against how we do it in the shop. If anything doesn't match your bow, stop and text us or call 270-318-2020.

Before you start

  • Each bow covers about 3 in of draw (FireBrand: Short 25–27, Medium 28–30, Long 30–32 in).
  • Reset the draw stops EVERY time you move the axle.
  • Peak weight drops about 5 lb per inch shorter.
  • Read the last step (if the bow locks) before you start.
  • Wear safety glasses, have a helper, and never dry-fire.

Steps

  1. Take the load off with the weight bolts (switching every 2 turns and counting), the short stringer or dowels.
  2. Remove the E-clips from the draw-length axles.
  3. Move the axle to the new hole; closer to the limb tip gives a shorter draw.
  4. Use the matching hole on both limbs and refit the E-clips.
  5. Don't draw the bow until the draw stops are reset if you went to a shorter hole, or it will lock.
  6. Loosen each lock nut and turn each draw stop screw IN 2 full turns per hole shorter, or OUT 1 full turn per hole longer.
  7. Bring the weight back (or remove the stringer or dowels at full draw), then check the cables sit in all three slides.
  8. Set let-off by backing the draw stop screws out no more than 1/4 turn at a time, drawing to check after each. Stop before you have too much.
  9. Have your helper confirm BOTH draw stop screws touch the limb at full draw.
  10. Retighten the lock nuts.
  11. Add string twists after moving to a shorter hole to keep brace height in range.
  12. If the bow locks at full draw: stand on the string, pull the riser up until the string has light tension, draw the recurve tip toward you while slowly lowering the riser until the bow takes weight again, then let down gently.

Tips

  • Tiny draw-stop turns make a big let-off difference; too much let-off is what makes the bow lock. (Discovery Instruction Manual p.2, p.4; Discovery Owners Manual 2003 p.6)