Main Discussion Area > Primitive Skills

Sinew Backing

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Otoe Bow:
This may be a silly question, but here goes.

When Sinew is removed from a deer, such as from the backstrap, it comes off in relatively long, thin sheets.  Why is it not in this form used as a backing for a bow much like a snake skin?  Obviously it would have to be glued on in overlapping layers to get the correct length, but strands have to be overlapped as well. 

Has anyone ever tried it?  I've never worked with sinew, but it seems like a huge chore to dry, pulverize, soak, and then glue bundles of strands down for a backing. 

Pappy's post on his technique got me thinking. 

Thanks to all.

Otoe

sonny:
That same thought crossed my mind but after thinking about it I realized that the sheath (even back sinew is enclosed in a sheath) would possibly prevent good adhesion.

I did discover that combing out fibers from backstrap sinew is quickly done, though I'm not crazy about the fine fibers you get from it. I much prefer leg sinew for backing bows. 

Hillbilly:
I saw a bow done like that once. It apparantly worked, but it was was ugly as hell. :)

Otoe Bow:
That's probably reason enough not to do it that way.   ;D Thanks guys.

Otoe

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