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Scythian tamarisk core

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loefflerchuck:
I cut some knot free tamarisk last time I was in the desert. I wanted to try and see if I could shape it green. I know this form is not quite perfect for a Scythian core but close enough. The limb split with no twist. I boiled it for 30 min and it easily bent to the shape of this form with no problems. I know most of the old bows were small sections of wood spliced throughout the limb, but if i get two solid limbs with no splice I figure I'll have a better chance at a shooter. I plan on splitting it down the middle and adding the center piece of horn. Probably use a side cut of bighorn since that is what I have and can get a 24" piece. Bighorn is a lot like mauflon, and mauflon may have been used.

BowEd:
You mean splitting it down the middle edge wise up and down?No sinew then either correct?....or maybe a crown of it down the center?Interesting!!

loefflerchuck:
Exactly Ed, but a real sinew backing. like a normal composite. Then wrapped with sinew the entire length.

BowEd:
Just spitballing here about the forces that happen when at full draw.Would it work to slightly concave the belly and convex the back before sinewing/the other way around/or crowned on both surfaces/or leave it flat before sinewing?Guess that might make a difference how much of a percentage of the width is horn?Glad your making those decisions on that.
I would say if done as stated mass should be reduced by quite a bit with the tamarisk.

loefflerchuck:
I'm not really trying to experiment with any new ideas Ed. I've just always liked how the Scythian bows look and the unique technology of these bows made over 2000 years ago. I was reinspired reading the study by Karpowicz and Selby on these bows. The ones form Xinjang were made of tamarisk. Since it is a invasive species to the south of me I thought it was a good opportunity. I don't have ibex horn but this is not an exact replica anyway. I figure I have enough experience to have about a 40% chance of success.

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