Looking for input -- bow setup question

[Swooshski]

OK, here's my situation.

I currently shoot a Mathews SB-XT, 70-lb limbs, 29RHL cam. And I need a new string for it before next season. BUT, I have it cranked down and have been shooting it at 55-56 lbs for the last couple of years due to a shoulder flare up back when. I've been reading some stuff lately about how I could be in danger of limb failures shooting it cranked down that low. And maybe losing some performance in the bow too.

Now, I have the opportunity to pick up a sweet deal on another SB-XT, loaded, with 60-lb limbs, 26RHL cam (which is way too short for me). This thing probably doesn't have 100 pulls on it in it's life (I know the original owner). 10 out of 10 condition with all the bling.

I know that I won't go back to shooting over 60-lbs, ever, and from the standpoint of safety, and maybe bow efficiency, I was thinking about buying the bow, and either having the cams swapped and a new string then installed on the new bow. And then probably selling my original SB-XT with the 26RHL setup on it, 70-lb limbs. But a 26 inch draw doesn't seem to be very popular and I don't need two bows. The only reason I am considering doing this and not looking at new bows is because I really like shooting the SB-XT. And since I need a new string, now seems the right time to investigate making this sort of move.

Before I call a bow shop to get prices I thought I would seek some advice from the Green Screen too.
1. Are new SB-XT cams still available through the dealers? Or would I have to find a used one if I wanted to just put a 29RHL on the new bow and leave my old setup alone?
2. Am I losing some performance (speed) shooting 55-lbs on 70-lb limbs vs what I would see shooting 55-lbs on 60-lbs limbs?
3. And my main question is regarding the safety issue of dropping below 60-lbs on my original bow with the 70-lb limbs?

I appreciate any constructive feedback that anyone has to offer. Thanks!

[BrianW]

1. not sure
2. YES. A bow gets its best performance when maxed out at it draw weight
3. never heard of that happening

[bowhunting1]

1. Yes, you can still get a new cam but they typically cost around $80 from a dealer. Could find a used one for around $30.
2. Bows shoot most efficiently when maxed but not losing enough performance to make a difference as long as bowed is tuned.
3. Bows are rated with 10# increment adjustments on the limbs but backing it off a few extra pounds shouldn't be an issue. Limb bolt are very long but you could get some lateral torque at the pivot point if backed off too much.
Personally, I would take the 60# bow, especially since it's like new, and swap cams. You may have a little more trouble selling yours with the 26" cam but someone will come along and buy it.

[bowhunting1]

....the new bow shouldn't need a new string and cable with only 100 shots on it. If you do replace I would recommend a custom string and cable such as Winners Choice. Longer life, little to no stretch and no peep twist.

[muddyfuzzy]

its a great bow no doubt. I would get the newer of the two and switch the cams out. the original sb and xt are still some of the most sought after used bows to date. you won't have any trouble unloading the bow at that length for a fair price. parts are readily available from Mathew's as well. I picked up a used SB a couple of years ago and had new factory limbs installed before I ever shot it. Cams can be had from Mathews' dealers or on line a dime a dozen. if you decide to sell your other, hit me up...... you never know.

also, if your bow is in spec and making peak weight of 70# with the bow max'd out then you are probably too backed out too far on the limb bolts at 55-56 pounds for the bow. the bow really starts to get way out of spec at that point probably maker it louder and have more hand shock than it otherwise would.

[BOWtechnicianTX]

i would still replace the string on the newer SBXT. Bow is over 7 years old. Sitting strings can wear and become brittle over time. I like to compare it to putting new tires on a car, then parking it for an extended period of time. They will start to crack and get weak just from sitting. More of a safety thing for me

[cg1219]

I have seen the limbs crack/ break around the limb bolt area on Mathews before due to the limbs being backed out too far causing an extreme angle on the limb right where it meets the limb bolt/ pocket.

[Sleepy]

You're average hunter and hunting bow won't notice any difference with limbs backed down. If you're shooting competition, then it might make a difference. Compare it to bedding a rifle. When the limbs are maxed out, they're snugged up against the riser, like a barrel or action would be to a stock when bedded. When the limbs are backed way off, you create a very small space between the limb and riser, which would be like an unbedded rifle. (Just a little play in there) It will still shoot fine, and do what you want it to do if you're just hunting with it. If you're looking to hit a golf ball at 60 yards, then ya might want to go ahead and get the bow that you can max out.

[Swooshski]

Thanks to everyone. I'm just an average hunter who wants to be safe with his equipment while using it, and am still learning some of the more technical stuff. That's all. After reading the replies I think I will go ahead and buy the bow, find me a used 29 cam for it and get it set up. That will probably be the easiest and best way to approach this. Again, I appreciate the feedback. Have a great 2015 season.

[old killer]

Safety should not be an issue.
Sound like a Chinese fire drill.
Why not order 60lb limbs and new strings? I bet Mathews still has 60lb limbs.