Opinions on bow bolt TD system

[M60gunner]

I am considering getting a LB (68") and the bow bolt is the TD option. I have never seen a bow with this style TD system so asking from those that are familiar what are plus and negatives. Thank you, TomM

[skookuminak]

I've had many 2 piece longbows and I much prefer the sleeve style used on big Jim, black widow, caribow, etc... The  bow-bolt is nice because you get a nice wooden grip under your hand but, in my experience, it is not well suited to adverse weather and conditions. I had a great little bow from a very reputable and well known bowyer and I spent many days moose, caribou, black tail and mtn goat hunting with it and killed all of those species. Despite following all of the Instructions and several emails and calls to the bowyer, from day 1 and onward, I continued to have issues with the bow bolt seizing up when I was in cold and or wet conditions and being unable to take it apart and occasionally unable to put it back together.  A few times I had to just leave it assembled for my hike out, unable to take it apart.I had it happen at least a dozen times. The bowyer finally told me that the system wasn't for everybody and these things happen...

[acedoc]

I am considering getting a LB (68") and the bow bolt is the TD option. I have never seen a bow with this style TD system so asking from those that are familiar what are plus and negatives. Thank you, TomM

I have a toelke td with the bow bolt. I can see no issues as long as it is well made and in the comfort zone of the Bowyer.
The  pro is tool less instant union of the parts. The con is the structural compromise if the anchor is not proper. That said my bow with stood a string break without issues.

[KentuckyWolf]

I have played around with longbows that have the hing system, bolt system and sleeve system. I prefer the sleeve system. Here is why: ease of use, reliability, strength (don't believe me ...watch the guys at black widow put their sleeve system through a hydraulic press).

I have seen hinges and bolts fail, lose alinement, etc.

[GCook]

If it weren't a reliable system big name bowyers wouldn't use it. 

Sent from my SM-G892A using Tapatalk

[1/4 away]

I've owned several bows with the bow bolt system including my new to me Elkheart and have never had an issue of any kind with it. It locks up solidly and I also like the weight it adds to the riser.

[kadbow]

I have also owned several bows with the bow bolt, never an issue.

[Crooked Stic]

Nothing wrong with the bow bolt. But the install material or way it is done is the problem. Thats why I like the fiberglass wrapped sleeve.

[azhunter]

I have had 3 bows with a bow bolt system. No problems, but haven't put any of them under harsh conditions.

[pdk25]

I currently have 3 bows with the bow bolt system.  I like the extra weight it gives a bow, but it is less pleasing to the eye IMO, compared to a sleeve system.   The oldest bow is an early model RER vortex that I haven't used in years.  It has a good strong dymondwood riser, but before people knew better, they installed the bolt in the exact  center of the bows cross section.  This causes a gap in the front when the bow is braced and causes stress points.  Pretty sure I have shot close to 50,000 arrows with that bow, because it was my primary bow for a few years, and I practiced alot back then.  Pretty happy with how it held up.  Shot my first trad deer, and first hog, with that bow.

[Possum Head]

Great thread, just the kind of question most would have when considering a take down. Sounds solid but the sleeve seems solid as well.

[Pointer]

Mine blew up at full draw. Broke right at the handle. The bowyer had made the error of not using any phenolic in the riser which was slim as it was a longbow. I didn't know anything about them and I ordered the bow with my choice of hardwoods. If the bowyer had suggested phenolic as well I would have been fine with it. He just never did...I have to believe he wasn't very experienced with it and that's how the error was made. There just wasn't enough mass and wood by itself wouldn't hold on its own. I guess wood by itself is fine if the riser is substantial enough. If not then it needs something stronger than just wood.

That was just my experience..lots of guys love the bow bolt and if it's used correctly I'm sure it's great. In my case it wasn't

Good luck...use some phenolic in that riser

[Steve Clandinin]

I think I've owned every system less the connection hinge, all have worked very well. The two or three bow bolts I've owned have been excellent. I presently have a Robertson Wolfer and the fit and function couldn't be nicer.

[M60gunner]

I want to thank everyone for their replies. I also like the sleeve system but the bolt is what's offered. It's a big decision not only with the TD system but have never seen any of the bowyers bows. The TD system isn't a deal buster but a years wait could be. An'it getting any younger, (74 almost).
  Thanks agian

[Bowguy67]

My Robertson longbow is shot almost every day. Sometimes multiple times a day. I see zero issues

[M60gunner]

Crookedstic, I hear you. But with age comes the realization I don't hike the hills like I did even 5 years ago. I am planning on selected hunts and more 3D and (heaven forbid) target shooting. I just passed on a BW LB at their showroom because it was a few to many pounds and not long enough.

[Terry Green]

One year Hope and Faith, the traveling bows for Saint Jude, had the Bow Bolt system and there were no problems whatsoever.

[lone hunter]

Yep, if you go with the bow-bolt system, make sure you have a Micarta riser. It will be bomb proof then, no worries.