Abstract: A bow string prop for archery bows comprising an elongated, rigid member having an inner end adapted to frictionally engage the handle portion of the bow and an outer end adapted to engage the bow string to hold the string in a drawn condition. The bow may be tensioned by use of the archer's foot and leg muscles with relatively little effort by the user, and once the bow string is fully drawn the bow prop is interposed and retained between the bow and the bow string retain the bow string under tension and the bow flexed. The bow is aimed and fired in the usual manner as drawing the bow string slightly further back allows the prop to fall to the ground, and the arrow is released in the normal manner.