I just had a set of vapor trail strings and cables on my bow and shop owner said that with proper care they should last atleast 2yrs. Now I was wondering what everyone thinks about this. Sorry my text is long.
Depending on how much you shoot a set of strings can last up to about 4 or 5 years. Beyond that and they should really be changed out. the strings start to break down on a molecular level after about 5 years. If you are an avid hunter who shoots for fun and are not launching 1000 arrows a week 2 or maybe even 3 years should be expected.
I shoot quite a bit and change mine out every two years. I think of it as cheap insurance to keep my bows shooting as well as they can and prevent a "blow up". One thing that hasn't been mentioned is care, etc. If you take very good care of your strings, waxing routinely, you'll get better life out of them. Also, if you're a hunter and your bow sees some rough conditions regularly, your strings will get some nicks or abrasions. You might not see them by looking at the string, but they're there. I say take good care of them and replace them every couple of years.
I've yet to shoot out a set in 2 to 3 years. If taken care of they will serve you well for a long time. Fortunately, with the reasonable price they are set out, you shouldn't have to shoot them to bare bones. I replace every 2 to 3 years with moderate use and proper care.
Interesting side note.... I don't have a press so stopped in at the shop last night with my Z7 to have them put on my new string/cable. Noticed what appeared to be 5 bows hung on their 'service rack' with tickets written up - various things being fixed. 2 of them had busted strings - the strings were still hanging on the bows - looked like they just exploded (one of the bows was a newer bow too - 2010 or newer).... Even though my string looked to be in pretty good shape, was pretty glad I was there having them put on a new string vs. my bow hanging on the wall. Have heard of stories where a string is taken off and then it's realized that multiple strands are broke in the middle/core of the string - shooter didn't even have a clue... Guess my point is, I'd rather replace more than I technically need to than risk it.... Think most of the suggestions are pretty good - look to try and replace around every 2 years... Maybe less if you shoot a ton, maybe can push it a little longer if you don't do much shooting...
also, what style of bow your shooting makes a big difference as well.... We've all seen cables with serving separation, some bows worse than others... This will shorten the life of the set very quickly, even on bows with not many shots!!
