Dacron vs FastFlight Bowstring (2026)
This is not a preference, it is a compatibility question. Dacron stretches, which cushions the limb tips at the shot, and it is safe on any bow. FastFlight and other low stretch materials transfer far more shock into the limb tips and can destroy limbs that were not built for them. Fit a low stretch string only if the limbs are marked as rated for it. If there is no marking, use Dacron.
At a glance
| KESHES Dacron Bow String | FastFlight Plus Recurve Bowstring | |
|---|---|---|
| Safe on unrated limbs | Yes | No |
| Stretch | Higher | Very low |
| Arrow speed | Lower | Higher |
| Shock into limb tips | Cushioned | Much higher |
| Creep over time | More, needs retwisting | Minimal |
| Noise | Quieter | Louder without silencers |
Choose the KESHES Dacron Bow String if…
Your limbs are unmarked, older, wooden tipped, or you simply do not know. Dacron is the default for a reason: it stretches enough to absorb the shock that would otherwise hammer the limb tips, and it will not damage any bow. It is also cheaper and gentler on your fingers and tab.
The cost is a few feet per second and more creep. A Dacron string settles over its first hundred shots and stretches over its life, so brace height drifts and needs correcting by adding twists. Check brace height with a bow square regularly rather than wondering why your arrows started hitting low.
Check KESHES Dacron Bow String on Amazon
Choose the FastFlight Plus Recurve Bowstring if…
Your limbs are explicitly marked as rated for FastFlight or a modern low stretch material, and you want the speed. A low stretch string transfers energy to the arrow instead of into stretching, which typically gains several feet per second and holds brace height far better over time.
Verify the rating on the limb itself, not in a product listing or a forum post. Fitting a low stretch string to unrated limbs can crack or delaminate limb tips, sometimes without warning and sometimes at full draw. If your limbs are unmarked, treat them as unrated. Also expect a louder bow, so plan on string silencers.
Check FastFlight Plus Recurve Bowstring on Amazon
Related
Comparison based on published manufacturer specifications and the general consensus of owner reports. We have not tested these products side by side. Confirm current specifications and prices before buying. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know whether my limbs are FastFlight rated?
Look for a printed marking on the limb face, usually near the fadeout or the tip, stating the rating. Many production takedown limbs carry it. If there is no marking, check the manufacturer specification for your exact model and production run, and if that is not available, assume they are not rated. The consequence of guessing wrong is a destroyed limb.
How many strands should the string have?
It depends on the material and the bow weight, and the string maker publishes a recommendation. Too few strands makes the string prone to failure and can damage nocks by making the fit too loose. Too many adds mass and slows the bow. Buy a string built for your bow length and weight rather than trying to convert.
What is the right string length?
For most recurves the string is about four inches shorter than the marked bow length, but follow the bow maker specification and then set brace height by twisting. Brace height is the real target, and the maker gives a range. Too low is noisy and can slap your arm, too high robs speed.
How often should a string be replaced?
Inspect it every session for fuzzing, cut strands and serving separation, and replace it at the first sign of a broken strand or a serving that has opened up. Many shooters replace a recurve string annually with regular use. A string that fails at full draw can injure you and can damage the bow, so this is not a part to run to failure.
How we choose: we compare published manufacturer specifications, verified owner reviews, and pro shop guidance. We do not test gear in person. Draw weight and arrow spine affect safety, so follow your bow manufacturer's specifications and have setup work checked by a qualified pro shop.
