I usually start with my bow, since that's where the big problems can occur. Besides giving it a general once-over, I take care of the items in this checklist:
- Check string for wear, replace if necessary, and wax it.
- Check nock points, peep, kisser, and other items on your string. Replace if necessary.
- Clean surface rust from steel surfaces and wipe them down with gun oil.
- Lube all moving parts (I find that dry graphite lube works well for lubricating moving sights).
- If you have a pendulum or other sight with moving parts, check its operation and apply dry graphite lube at pivot points. (This is very important, trust me!)
- Check your rest's adjustment and replace heat-shrink if necessary.
- Check your string silencers, if you use them. My rubber-band "cat-whiskers" have just about had it, so I'll be replacing mine this year.
- If you use a bow quiver, check its mount. Make sure it's tight and won't vibrate and hum when you shoot.
- Check your quiver... does it still hold your arrow shafts securely? Is the hooded area for your broadheads in good shape?
- Take a close look at the guide rod and slide, if so equipped. Repair or replace a bent or nicked guide rod and/or worn slide.
- Take a look at the bow's finish... is it well camoflaged and glare-free? I like to apply matte camo tape over any surface that might glare.
- Take a look at the limbs, hunting for cracks, splits or other oddities/imperfections. Replace if necessary; a limb breaking at full draw can ruin anyone's day, and may cause injury.
After taking care of the items in the above list, I move on to my arrows and other gear.
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