Strings and cables

Replace the string: Kestrel, Phoenix and 2017+ Osprey

Oneida says never to put these bows in a bow press. The string is changed in Oneida's Compression Jig, and Oneida recommends a dealer do it. Here's how it goes and what to check afterward.

  • Difficulty Best done by a shop
  • Time About 15–30 minutes with the jig (estimate)
  • For 3 Oneida models

From the Oneida Eagle Bows Kestrel manual. The Phoenix and 2017+ Osprey use the same module system, but we don't have their string-change page, so check with us first.

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

  • Never put a Kestrel in any bow press. Oneida says it will damage the bow. The only tool Oneida shows for a string change is its Compression Jig.
  • Oneida's manuals say to have an authorized Oneida dealer do string and cable work.
  • Never draw the bow while the orange timing screw is loose.
  • Wear safety glasses. When you draw into or out of the jig, keep your bow arm straight and your face back.
  • Order the string length for your set-up (see your model page). The yoke cable colors tell the set-ups apart.

Steps

  1. Draw the bow and set it between the two press blocks of the Compression Jig so the string goes slack.
  2. Lift the old string off and fit a new one of the same length.
  3. Draw the bow again with the new string seated and lift it out of the jig.
  4. Measure brace height from the deepest part of the grip to the string and compare it with your model page.
  5. Measure tiller from the string to the nose of each cam, lined up with the center of the cam's hole. Top and bottom should match.
  6. Loosen the orange timing screw FIRST if tiller is off. Then turn the long-measuring end's bolt clockwise, or the short-measuring end's bolt counter-clockwise.
  7. Retighten the orange timing screw. Never turn a weight bolt while it's tight.
  8. Put on a new nocking point (see 'Set your arrow rest and nocking point').
  9. Wax the string, but keep wax off the loops around the limb tips.
  10. Call us before backing the weight bolts off if you don't have the jig. Never improvise with a regular bow press.

Tips

  • Oneida Eagle Bows recommends a new string and cables every 5,000 shots or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Kestrel Manual p.2, p.4)