FAQs about the BowNear Retractable Bow Holder

Have Questions?
Check out our FAQ's to find answers to the most commonly asked questions. If you can’t find the answer, please email us at sales@bownear.com.

Question: How do I install BowNear® to the tree?
Answer: Wrap the strap around the tree, hook the looped end over the button, pull the loose end of the strap tight, and screw the tension handle clockwise.

Question: How do I adjust the speed of the bow arm?
Answer: To control the retraction speed, simply tighten or loosen the adjustment knob on the side of the arm.

Question: Can I use the unit for right or left hand operation?
Answer: Yes, BowNear was designed for right or left handed operation. The extension arm has a full 270^o movement right to left.

Question: How do I adjust the arm to my reach?
Answer: The extension arm is hinged at the base and in the middle to adjust to your reach. It works similar to a human arm and shoulder. Just loosen the thumbscrews to position the arm, then retighten the thumbscrews.

Question: Can the bow arm be locked in the horizontal position?
Answer: The bow holder extension arm can be locked down to the horizontal position, or can be set to rise out of the way automatically to the vertical position when the bow is lifted off the hook – in super-slow, silent motion, or at any speed you desire

Question: How does the camera arm work, and can it be used on the right or left side of the unit?
Answer: Just attach your camera or camcorder to the swivel head screw, and you’re ready to document your hunt. The base rotates 360^o and adjusts up and down 45^o. It can be used on the right or left hand side of the unit by simply loosening the main pivot thumbscrew and swinging the arm to the desired side.

Question: My camera is heavy. How much weight is the camera arm able to hold?
Answer: The BowNear camera arm is rated to hold a hefty 15 pounds.

Question: How do I collapse BowNear for carrying?
Answer: Just pull the pin and rotate the arm back (it moves back under its own power). It collapses into a compact, lightweight unit for transportation to and from your deer stand.

Question: Does the bow arm make any noise when it goes up?
Answer: No. The BowNear bow holder was designed to be completely silent.

Question: Does the arm spook game when it retracts?
Answer: Our field research concluded that the arm going up does not spook game. However, if you don’t want the arm to move, simply lock it down in the horizontal position.

Question: What is the warranty?
Answer: BowNear has a limited lifetime warranty against any defects in material and workmanship.

Question: Are the gear hooks plastic or metal?
Answer: The gear hooks are made of steel, for strength and durability.

Question: Does the bow arm work in cold weather conditions?
Answer: BowNear works as well at minus-30^o temperatures as is does at 90^o.

Question: What material is BowNear made from?
Answer: BowNear is made from cast alloy aluminum for strength and light weight.

Question: How does the self-leveling system work?
Answer: The three-point contact mounting system allows for left-to-right and front- to-back adjustment, to allow for unusual tree configurations.

Question: Does BowNear require any annual maintenance?
Answer: No. BowNear should last for many years without any service. However, special grease packs and service parts are available on our web site for an occasional tune up.

Question: Can I purchase BowNear in stores?
Answer: BowNear is only available at BowNear.com. Go to our product line page to complete your purchase.

Question: What happens if I greatly overload the main arm?
Answer: BowNear protects itself with a shear pin, and is rated to hold 30 pounds.

Question: When I order the product or kits, how long do I have to wait to receive it?
Answer: The product ships from our warehouse within 2 business days. Orders shipped via ground within the continental US typically will arrive in 2 to 4 days after leaving the warehouse .

Question: Can I leave my BowNear set up in my tree stand all year?
Answer: Yes. BowNear is designed to survive the elements over the long haul. Many years of exposure will result in gradual paint fade and eventually corrosion on the plated fasteners. If required, these can be replaced with fastener kits found on the web site.

Question: Does the BowNear screw into trees like other bow hangers?
Answer: No. BowNear’s three-point contact mounting system uses straps, not screws. It’s designed to be tree-friendly and legal to use on State and Federal property.

Question: Does BowNear come in a camouflage pattern?
Answer: No. BowNear has a flat-black powder coat finish so you can customize it to your hunting conditions.

Question: Can BowNear be used as a personal support device, safety anchor point, or to hold my firearm?
Answer: Absolutely Not! BowNear is only to be used for your camera and bow.