As an avid archer myself, I know firsthand how devastating it can be when something happens to your favorite piece of equipment. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect your compound bow from the elements.
Rain has the potential to negatively affect your compound bow and over time can cause damage to certain components. However, a compound bow can be used in the rain as long as the proper before and after care have been performed.
How Rain Affects A Compound Bow
I know that if I want my compound bow to last a long time, I need to take proper care of it. Rain can have a negative effect on compound bows if you’re not careful, so it’s important to understand how rain affects them and what you can do to prevent damage from moisture.
When exposed to rain, the water has the potential to sneak into various places you don’t want it such as bolts, screws, axles, etc. Without proper care this can lead to corrosion and cause you issues down the road.
In order for your compound bow to stay in good condition for longer periods of time, it is important that you take steps to protect it from moisture. One part of that is to keep your moving parts properly lubricated as part of regular maintenance and before shooting if you know it will be wet weather.
Taking these precautions will help ensure that your compound bow remains functional and reliable no matter what weather comes your way. Which brings us to preventing damage from moisture in the first place.
Preventing Damage From Moisture
A damaged bow can lead to lost time on the range, missed shots in the field, and money burnt. Unfortunately, one of the most common threats to a compound bow is moisture. That’s why it’s essential to take steps to protect your bow from rain and other forms of moisture. Like a castle wall defending its kingdom, you should arm yourself with knowledge about how to best safeguard your bow from harm.
One way to keep water away from your compound bow is by using a waterproof covering or carrying case when transporting it outdoors. This will help protect against moisture entering the sensitive parts of your bow and causing damage.
If you’re shooting outdoors, try to remain under some sort of shelter such as an overhang or awning during rainy conditions; this should provide enough protection for both you and your equipment.

You can also use wax or another type of sealant on exposed strings, cables, and limbs – just make sure that any product used is specifically designed for use with bows before applying it. I also have a post with more compound bow maintenance tips.
After taking all these precautions, if you still find yourself facing wet weather while shooting, there are still things that can be done. Make sure there is no liquid dripping off the limbs before shooting; if there is, dry them off with a soft cloth or towel first.
Also remember that hot weather can cause condensation on metal parts which may cause corrosion; if this happens wipe them down with an anti-corrosive agent such as gun oil or WD-40 after shooting is finished for the day.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to better protect your compound bow from rain and other forms of moisture – ensuring that it remains in top shape for years to come! With these suggestions in mind, let’s move on to discussing how best to shoot your bow in the rain…
Shooting Your Bow In The Rain
Shooting your bow in the rain can be tricky business. You want to make sure that you’re taking all the necessary safety precautions, as well as making sure your equipment is working properly. Sometimes it may be unavoidable, so here are some ways to do it safely and effectively.
The first thing to consider when shooting in the rain is protecting yourself and your gear. Make sure you have proper clothing on, such as a waterproof jacket and pants, along with a hood or hat to keep rain out of your eyes.
It’s also important to cover your bow with something waterproof if you can while not being used, such as a tarp or bag. This will help keep moisture from getting into the strings and cams of your compound bow which could cause damage over time.
The most important factor when shooting in the rain is ensuring that you maintain a steady hold on your bow and arrow throughout the entire shot process. The rain is likely to make things slicker than you’re used to and dropping your bow or letting it slip during a shot could be a real bummer. Keep a tighter grip than usual when shooting in the rain!
Now that you know how to shoot safely in the rain, it’s time to move onto another important step, drying out a wet bow after use.
Drying Out A Wet Bow
Yes, rain can certainly hurt a compound bow. It’s important to try and keep the bow dry, especially if you plan to shoot it in wet conditions. The worst thing that can happen is that the metal parts of the bow become corroded, which will make them less effective and cause premature wear.

You should take some precautions when shooting your bow in the rain. Make sure to cover any exposed parts of the bow with a plastic bag or a waterproof cover if you can. This will prevent water from getting inside holes and crevices and damaging components.
When it comes time to clean up after shooting in wet conditions, you’ll want to make sure all of the metal components are dried off completely before storing your bow away for later use. Also be sure to inspect for any rust spots or corrosion that may have occurred due to exposure to moisture and use a cloth lightly dampened with oil if necessary.
With these steps taken, you can ensure that your compound bow remains safe and functional even when faced with wet weather conditions.
Best Tips For Protecting Your Bow In The Rain
As a bowhunter or even a target shooter, it’s important to know how to protect your compound bow from the elements. The weather can change quickly and unexpectedly out in the field.
Rain can be especially damaging if you don’t take the proper precautions. Here are some tips for keeping your bow safe in wet weather:
– Clean & Store Properly:
Before going out on a rainy hunt, make sure to clean your bow thoroughly and apply any protection products that may help keep it dry.
After the hunt, wipe your bow down and let it dry out. Apply oil where necessary and make sure to store your bow properly in a dry place away from moisture.
– Use Cover:
If possible, keep your under cover while shooting and/or bowhunting. This isn’t always practical, but it’s the best option if you can swing it.
– Avoid Extreme Conditions:
Try to avoid shooting during extreme weather conditions such as heavy storms or downpours.
It’s best not to risk exposing your bow to the elements if you can help it.
It goes without saying that it’s crucial to take all necessary steps when protecting your compound bow from rain damage. By taking the time to do so, you can ensure that you’re able to make the most of each archery season for years to come!
The Bottom Line
Remember, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your compound bow from rain and moisture. Taking the time to properly maintain your bow can help extend its life and keep it in good condition for years. How long is that anyway? Read about how long compound bows last.
Just like a car needs regular maintenance, so does a compound bow. Don’t let a little rain stop you from shooting your bow – just be sure you take the proper precautions to keep it safe.