Even if you just purchased the bow, does anyone automatically switch out the stock strings for some other alternative? Just curious. And if so, what would you rate as the key reason for doing so.
With my Bowtech's it's never an issue of quality. I usually like to set my new bow up with the stock string and put a few hundred shots through it and then order a set in the color of my choice from Vapor Trail, that way I have a back up set (the stock set) all ready to go with peep and all.
Most manufacturers these days are using BCY 452X in their factory strings which is really good quality stuff, until you get to Kodiak. The 5' tall grass, Devil's club, cow parsnip and salmon berries tear the Hell out of that stuff and make it pill up like crazy within a couple of weeks, even if you're anal about waxing. I replace all my strings ASAP with custom ones made of Brownell UltraCam. It's a very little bit slower but WAY more durable than 452X. Also I get rid of Mathews Zebra and Barracuda strings ASAP. They just plain suck for elongation and serving separation. The best factory strings I've come across are BowTech and maybe Elite (though I haven't run these through the ringer completely yet.) Both are 452X. If I didn't make my own strings I'd take a serious look at the G5 Matraeo strings. Guaranteed to spec and made of Brownell Xcell material... top notch stuff at a reasonable price too. A way to go if you're concerned about it is to shoot in the factory strings (tune them up) then take them off and keep them for spares when you replace them with a better set as Ben mentioned.
All of my Bowtech's, I've shot the factory strings out before replacing them. Bowtech has always put top end strings on their bows and you shouldn't have any issues with them. Now, some of my other bows I've owned, I have replaced the strings in short order. It never made a lot of sense to me how some manufacturers will produce knock out bows and put junk strings on them.
Years ago before hooking up with BowTech, when I shot Mathews I would order my bow, an aftermarket grip (from Tronjo on AT) and a set of strings all at once. Not trying to slam them; they make an awesome bow... but not grips or strings. (though I've heard they've gotten better in the strings dept.; grip still sucks big-time though). Never even THINK about replacing strings with anything else on my BTs.
When I shot Hoyt, first thing we'd do is take off the factory strings and make my own. Things have come a long way in the string dept. Bowtech makes some of the finest strings I've seen. I only make strings now for Ben's buddies older bows. :D And my Allegiance has my string on it.
"The older bow buddy has done a number on his string this year"... cough. Looks around... whistling... What? All I can say is Rob makes a damn fine string. I use and beat the hell out of mine unfortunately.
