Main Discussion Area > Bows

Need advice on hickory backing

(1/2) > >>

Stickhead:
I’d like to try cutting some hickory backings from some surplus staves, and I’m not sure what characteristics are best.  Here are some considerations:

1) is heartwood or sapwood better?
2) is it best to cut quartersawn so that endgrain lines extend down the strip?
3) if cut as above, is run-off a problem?
4) how thick (1/8”?)?
5) how can you test it prior to use (just bending the heck out of it?)?
6) if the stave I’m ripping is twisted, is this a problem due to violating the vertical grain?

Thanks for any wisdom y’all can share.

…Tom

Pat B:
1, sapwood
2, edge or bias grain are the best but I've used flat grain also.
3, some runoff is ok as long as it isn't too steep.
4, I cut them at 3/8" and after dressing both sides they end up about 1/8" or slightly less.
5, knowing the stave you cut the strips from is sound should be good enough. If the stave was mishandled off the stump the backing strip could be compromised.
6. if the runoffs are not too steep the backing strip should be ok.

Stickhead:

--- Quote from: Pat B on February 20, 2023, 11:14:01 pm ---1, sapwood
2, edge or bias grain are the best but I've used flat grain also.
3, some runoff is ok as long as it isn't too steep.
4, I cut them at 3/8" and after dressing both sides they end up about 1/8" or slightly less.
5, knowing the stave you cut the strips from is sound should be good enough. If the stave was mishandled off the stump the backing strip could be compromised.
6. if the runoffs are not too steep the backing strip should be ok.

--- End quote ---
Thanks, Pat!  Always a wealth of information!

PEARL DRUMS:
I echo Mr. Brennan's comments. I would suggest testing them before glue up. Bend them suckers in a circle. They will either snap or hold up. Bad hickory breaks quickly and good hickory doesn't break.

Pat B:
 :OK Pearlie got it!

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page