Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Gordon on March 15, 2020, 05:28:26 pm
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Spliced up a pair of plum tree billets for a bow that I am making for a member of my black powder group that wants a primitive bow really bad. I told her I don't make many bows anymore and tried to direct her to another in our group who would build a bow as nice or better than I can but she would have none of it - it had to be one of my bows. So I told her I would. I'm getting soft in my old age (sigh). Anyway, I'll post more pics as I go along.
(https://9epoha.by.files.1drv.com/y4mAkqM76vIrNtIHriwQwiZCVFzhaUjbDEN6aXjARIQpdxuiIxIJNdnUKC7LYhXUAoMDhvdAgZDxtffL-WEoLNJIyoehSQDyYmi_nqaHuf8_Rz9MGixh_IWAK-mYENsvYoo8k7lxD2MD-sOgp2OuNugFXTS09hMr81bbtOjo69RCVphuDF8eGHinhOswrJmrB_A?width=1152&height=720&cropmode=none)
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Looking forward to seeing the finished bow, Your work is the best... Chuck
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Can't wait to see what you come up with Gordon.
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Really lookin forward to the progress pics, your process is a joy to watch.
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Fun stuff! Jawge
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Got her roughed out. I have a good feeling about this one.
(https://9epmha.by.files.1drv.com/y4mbMFucgTI4AB-VhY6tT-NisgNNm_lhCcuwOaHYC3nPfZ7TXFvZgQ832wm4aTKmxQjHvk3GV9pXEXGMAkllNB0BJNgVRtZAI70v9CQigPtGHHbir3MPH73RZFUT_MVaJ8Z29B98F1r01NoVThLmMX-FHwl5VSQmyyrdTuPSuPmT1cyqR_CkCvFLBN42NmwvGFs?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none)
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Very excited to see this. Thanks for posting it Gordon.
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Yep, very happy to see you back and observe more of your work!
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Looking very well so far G. Those billets look nice.
HH~
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Howdy Stranger!
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Good to see you on here Gordon. I hope more people put that pressure on you. ;)
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Good to see you post again. Always enjoy your work :D
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Looks neat! Ya' ought to name it "RonnyVoo (her camp name)"! Several other members of our boys club are also primitive bow shooters, so I expect a bow relay to worm into one of our shoots.
Hawkdancer
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A Gordon build along? Oh the nostalgia, cant wait
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I cleaned up the back and then drew the taper on each limb edge while carefully following the contours of the back.
(https://lruhfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mqhw0Ezt6NfrUfRCT9p26FrJ6K2ZD2qoX5WXlES609V6DDBqdkXO21VWOTW4LLTdDOQ20oXYy59uEgYag9BVcoxNDB4oefWeUo6t2syl58P1Hork7N1UGqdOEnSA_Juk8wXgV7bGWt6ctFdlHLtd1OyhmrZoZ5BUdOhvVXLSe5ofqPCZY7ZdMRj32q5uz4is7?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
After the taper is drawn I diagonally rasp the limbs down to the lines. This leaves a facet which I then work down to an even thickness across the limb.
(https://lrugfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mdD9BI61akbw7DkRhW2SGh7KGOGrh9meDeaHq1zp_nYF-pDU5xeHkg4nFJ2zv92TX7z7mdLWxMTpH7thBhgviF9CTslSHntKhwz5aHvnp6hbj8ixsz15A0LRTKWaC60SJoQpkSForUMMxm3H2F68x5M55dUIhslV5NIpwx3Q7cwpM7TE9BH967RjuqsAdC8tk?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lrulfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mWinXqJuYsHsyL8xMjD7qSxsinWccYFbAsNcXjYAaUahdI3W78GYx15JVB8cR2IX484cp42RFH1lv5EOXtxKjr2UxqN00CIY6lTd0iYgY3-ZJs_6LFtJqCYcS9I-rpwRL1SoELaiorp1gBYMCcMDZj1sp0zwtk-VcWrK1OAoJIjH3YUWgrOWs9Lk_iKl0gadg?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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I am using steam to add some reflex to the outer limbs.
(https://lruifw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mje_gZP7TZYRMV9ZIej2Dba0dBwysYmSwAfJcT5ylMEQJt7eLtmup2cqJRv8ImTplIPPj4ShDeiszo2SIhjBKhehsjj_NJJjcDAVn2rkLulZnnUi7Rj97x39QYZ2-pQybTj8ynoxz_IlF08zO2TUhWQ_tOPPg80yQ3MEbAk725J3KahXJI8zSIsAosPLOntmy?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lrujfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m5JQhIXiSktln2U3kehqFmbMtFd5Rf9LT-qETNzBgRVKO1Mrk4YTwO0zAcljttcnvZhWD4jJNpz7zg1MV6qEsnGcIiuiiIkck_eFpp3YaRYNQvbK9NGpdc9Zkc_l_K5-kBn8SXpXhAbNWAmJmMtRHgw6jR8rBivuHiAw66irwHPsdM5i08d2NXjOlMsY6GZ5Y?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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Lookin real nice bud!
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Nice to see your detail in the build alongs.....welcome back!
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I'm following with interest! You are one of my idols and I know this bow will come out great.
I've saved your hazel buildalong years ago. I still have it and it is a reference for me.
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Really looking forward!
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I'm with Medicinewheel, looking good to me!
Hawkdancer
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Here is what she looks like after steaming in reflex. Not too bad.
(https://lhuefw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mYPYyTuPpjB_a_5hBCa-ziax5LlYisu03o9IQwKkFucv74OYlHmqMnAURU6PPJ00J9t7l-4DVDpFuQNyMNYFsUywTE-XVED3rj-7AorI55AZq9OkP4YA8r0h_xD9kNo9AqleXffz0El1zqieNd6QmqcpENOq4Z3S-7p83m7jJ5tUE0sWcMSQvouV4_bAuyIr6?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
I took some wood off and now she is bending.
(https://lhuhfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mcx_IZHxkR_WiD0DJ3Bi6Z_WfQgcSIpqRffcprSo5ZQtJrXzq_tEE7HzyLc4uUfKzF_dPqIZ66XxB7msJ2BS5d9djMvcZj2dXbEsSN_xoZuGCf2q1_U7aY5H_ZJW6-JaiGeebBnlkfTz1DtjjGX9r8aVKxKAbaeDFneq3n2jXRqo3Lq6zse-kjniii-TL0vZG?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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Got her bending pretty good. Now it is time for the short string. I leave the tips wide and cut some temporary string groves.
(https://lhuifw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mmIof80u3xhpmpgMbUE0HEeFeyEEuXOiKtMd91kp6Oi9qwVp0eIVgGZRkQYbzk1SsBgD16W_awruCblyRrmh8bUXspT4f6jZD3_BJEwM6_fyJ7RN50IRT2hSzt894mykvmB1ho1nypvfRQTVC1Y7CnTOhGdM1VklYWfgDFPygro1lhEJ5QndwzLpk-EQE50-T?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
Here is what she looks like braced the first time. Top limb clearly needs some work.
(https://lhukfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mwBoNpz_qWFJ-lAoIjgzQ6fjDhLwJLyJkjveswx2yVEDBfReJ2cywhuPRUZ-MMm8uLvjNTtiFAINP_YyWH1vF2Lysclkm39DLZGUFwNoB7Y-1nO1BL63HyqyFtiC1gmF2rXXKTK9ylxq6ja9j6CNnBvO_9LYmzUXTj2Wwf2QIGWViB9Gr4peazq6fcNmPwAqu?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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The string alignment is off a bit because of limb twist. I'll take the twist out with my heat gun.
(https://lhulfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mAihN3JPbuHlKDhhKKNDprEaCdt3iOi19HCvuH-Kt38WX89dcVTHIDjQn06u9GFNA3NaLXTYeD4JtW2s3Y0p-CUMhHwjq6fprL1qdz8wyGety17Mx2K0bbixnssEcG_2cx8ZzrIPfr5BZ8dTFjVLjuPICBFTJbmDYIlW2g_9xbjlE0IFyK7WG-QnqyfPqBo2y?width=576&height=768&cropmode=none)
Some of the reflex pulled out of the top limb while I was floor tillering it. So I am going to heat some reflex back into the limb.
(https://lhujfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m9aWBsSEBSmTEOTEX1F1Qk9nIUSlK8GTw8aLDqGDkh-yjmeocylEcBh2py_AP531HxOFAjMe7jibD7HXaiaxu1LDF01q8B1robHxtMbW482uA6QXBSReHIfdeOgVgWDCF4cFXDRPduf_-nZno036pUt85vFgegeBcvHjsXkDBk-_rj5vdsrrCAMdkiT5QcwaJ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
Looks pretty good.
(https://lxudfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mwtpHLJR3DIcWvwjHwsRnlzLZ3KrM1V97rSJif6pcOpfe5CRakE7drJpHdqtBv7lfKmwiH-jVhcH8d5YZs7-b6eENmHwwJ-Ea77Jty8StIbyF4OwK5vZBQ_69l6kPpaXFVgSsX0ZbFXOLGdWo9eflFwrqegOerfNA6CoPCFHAbGNGWqxaYYhwGgHFD5ZgK5qS?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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Took a little more wood off the lower limb and now the limbs are a bit more balanced.
(https://lxuffw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mY0l56siKRe3H0PSR88j_WbiLhQ-6VekE1fXOMDedso596cvpDyFz-JZ-JMriN32iHT2CWm7OBjBWUYWytSmT0F86z57OaIoiX2qKPrxW4joqlMIyDVHv3cLEidvPfFO7K1TV7CictO7b3MP52OAeTTP167pC-Me7gLfT-29Uo8I9g1tudGCNXhJ3m9Ox2yPn?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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At this point I like to shape the handle before I get too far along tillering.
(https://lxucfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mEqqec3VGWOYbagmg5YWPPA-yRIbYt2OI8wm2TYe8fV77DzOADBNhzMoT-_sCg7YSSgeyFcvqiM8NQ6clL9AKAhR2SnbBlMbBkx4P20R4Q5BJu0aGdUETqSlYb2RGEmUsWR-2nhNbmMX2SF5KIrrtjE8fSfLX0X2YeGe2ej-SXMeBDtjiwYpMiagwahe9b_mj?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lxuefw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mejG7VjAMj4nDzS7WZwWqnnqgdP2zD1Manq24Fs7v996IOqZK8puqPaLWZEpMIUMRoRPWjp1OuzII-UQ7DdtCVcXpddEjJWYDZF43yCEyScFbHn7IspttK_k7Mv6ZqHW5EkHdQP7dqkAfKjXoN85vaLBEk8hk_C1DmQBOdAyDmLMxV2yIxw5DnotDeOZ-aray?width=576&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lxugfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mvD-cygJEwoMggTYXetLpDCEDrI0Xfs-5FHXr-1-ApGLUfV6InfyUpSWk-rtH1n7aSB_cnCifsJsX109-6T0jTVCUE-t77KsTZL3vgVJZ9o2pPwsN4vfVDWKq5oHHwqakPUTTW4UPs7vOhYUtX_sM5UF3kMpndpFWB_Jjz_tIsuRQmKZEDEdOOzrjE7I5PJ7Q?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
https://lxujfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mpaXC0V6ZFw3k54tkts4ws7rZ5hCZkUTWrHoC9zk4L4RqghrIKUCB8shEXpQ22WAgyGXBk1gUqcM4SU7i0yfpmeF1Agf9KM6gzKsFi9bG7TV5ipNLZBovDQ8wWfwO6MqRDryfLaEoRxZjkj_Iah4JLY9PNEzQjOaqjqQqGMtH2YO90MbaxgU1gva9GQeMU6D0?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none
(https://lxujfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mpaXC0V6ZFw3k54tkts4ws7rZ5hCZkUTWrHoC9zk4L4RqghrIKUCB8shEXpQ22WAgyGXBk1gUqcM4SU7i0yfpmeF1Agf9KM6gzKsFi9bG7TV5ipNLZBovDQ8wWfwO6MqRDryfLaEoRxZjkj_Iah4JLY9PNEzQjOaqjqQqGMtH2YO90MbaxgU1gva9GQeMU6D0?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lxulfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mhie2PX8yKPK6quWf2t-O7ZYVV66XekZbkxTkQJjRQcynIvmSJsvJgtXr7_z-EbJk7waAVlPl9Ao1YmuGUiL4LhS4jAOjP5-U3e3xMNwortcID1PNw-u5wm4bSY958n3q4p7y8XPaFggeBkmvMQySzLR6AKZlkoMlXv-gmFxUaUk2AKJDU3V0mB98ArwFE3VB?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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And now I do the final shaping with a file and rasp.
(https://lxuhfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mTCqlf8JAWy1z_5rpwmCRhPyc0zM8KGLvDRapNV5m2TGvew_chG_cDfUiVPIehnyC4c4hNvJCbXA7Y29979kauHcBOWmzUOO9BNwY6NKDF57BGcB-1hQYBkPuNPrgiZRyBimkDTXrrzdwt8-FsCfGX6ZJY7bdI7jaTGkPza4E3yBzSbkfVMaqk1u6ChDgtfBa?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lxuifw.by.files.1drv.com/y4myjjnWXjX1WQ_Fm7V4oqTU-NGRhe0uPr6ohD1zo9bisp4NgimC77GNa59sLT5N-RMzdNOE6W8sKKaHeLqWaPYMIu_GFeUP6NA4iTygaIE37OozdLzvBbgfdr0GmiYo2atNx9pHWgtRBU6B1XfDiv95kR6ANuEVy53EGRtIbtmFpMd7zHDZQsL7hUe1AXj_yRT?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://lhudfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m-8Yii8u3FH4bzVz2KvVZYrAOGqVTWYElP5-5cu5XRY5CvvQoBeed8PbNK9rhVGPEhITUs6fWxT4Y9jurAS6yL5tfQ285ylmBVeeZDnD1x2m7Yn0Eu9Jq4IlNdgDAAx0cvNDJh0RHb9MMi6DYIq6B_I5SnFFo7ILxLun5Vb0KDHbTrwRQVcShpOdkSJktxc06?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
(https://lxukfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mwp0dDUdPIPXUZgSyJLkpSmcJLnFL_eFQ8cxjEonpA_khJnuwlUMZLhooFXkOyMoUUIZDIl3lmoy0drhkZOdpvbGByCtFjT-HxysA078B0jof6f-RwQVjWQISP6zDOn4npGtNS2D52n67YltPheilbltqHJcb4nAIqa3KRV2cQg7iFo7jbwJkd2ZH5h2p590S?width=1024&height=640&cropmode=none)
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I take a little more wood off to improve the limb balance and now she is ready to tiller.
(https://lhucfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mWMLSVZnspQAKyF5JAOvNc0JyEx2yFmvfSZBQzbIaJQ7vg6zojjUgiu_dEuyDvmyZVFEDdI0IICWnNuA0M_0ZWjNudtdvDg9PFi5TIp8sBjTKvDD6VpGTUwJqWDJGPZAnp6mRYSePVCEsV1VVs0_zu-NJa-8w74T2FVXk5tvoMMomswnBvxvOaKSMF5DMYhMP?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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That comes along nicely, I really enjoy your workflow.
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I'll be following this one closely. I have a spliced plum stave in my workshop that I have flipped the tips on. I haven't got round to making a bow from it yet. But hope to soon.
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Loving the shape already. Do you know what species of plum? It doesn’t look like the purple leaf plum i have.
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I like that Grobet double rasp. Do you know if those are still available? I can't find one online. The bow is shaping up to be awesome!
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Hey Bryce, I don't know what species of plum this is. I got the wood from a neighbor who was hacking it out of their yard.
Tim, I got mine from a local WoodCraft store several years ago. They don't seem to have it on their website anymore which is too bad because it is a terrific little tool.
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Really enjoy watching your work progress. The handle and fades flow so elegantly into the limbs. Very pleasing to the eye. Thanks for taking us along.
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Let the tillering process begin!
(https://mbuffw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mR-rtaKdYPDt2zmn7Dnh0UR7vT54WSFSQyC_tgYCHqt_R6Lb-MZnhZnnKBOsnZU6pSJRGTTUPtjVxlk8yqw75f9vbzsrfWwzIzIQzlRDy-H3uZyV9Odxms0SGn0jYUrbAuwHr8VQazLvW3iOj60of-O6w9_U6ivS9M9WMzjmUQIxuQU5Co6F9MqEmUehvJo4r?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
(https://mbuefw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mJaDwfyQsxKqmg67nF_qJeCV02c3XNUiSqwLfMMvYnfc9WjnpACuV2fbsMC1RMBM3YB_qF4nWxcbtPIJ4zBT7eb9bkrVt2v5RWmnWEcZ7OoV45iGiGT88aMJf3jUlkh1vEIqqwiBCL8H-KSvr5-9orlFSEObjLqHt34jSEmLX7Buwp20vAtIGFkend2EMxr5u?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
(https://mbucfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m_k19_CcuMtuDjT4Du7AJhJUFFdnQ1gl_yX7AIMIb5EtpVFsMSaUUhBWujMJ8Vvg1eD5PUnkF8p4uMK0mb-I9sEt2kialdZzbEWA3ECZTUihveoZEOgdt6Mr2voYponwkJEvWTxvGBTMAfEpDtWKKj7DcpXOhu4QbshrOjmS9ywu89C7dzs1ELQhBIFFMD4Ja?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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Gordon, it appears you "pinned" the splice? Just decorative or were you addressing an issue? Or do I not understand what I am seeing? :-)
Thanks, Paul
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I pin mine most of the time as well. Depends on the splice
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You are very observant Paul. I noticed that the splice was beginning to separate so I shot some superglue into the open seam and pinned the splice with hardwood dowels. So far it's holding, but I will wrap the handle with braided Dacron line before finishing the bow just to make sure.
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Damn Gordon, You've still got it.
I've really missed seeing your masterpieces.
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Now I will make some tip overlays. Using my band saw I cut a strip of horn from knife scale material.
(https://mhukfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m-J3_ZO3WY9CXsLgUUEsAiXxQeZZudYM2fPF6GFjeQ2XbweqaaPloNAJ26N7x-xzM9JG2I1bUv-bSTU-FTQsLm8W2qXPvn3TsT0S-w3XjzqRe0HNjeY43l0PBNdqmOFXK2TLXgwtBofzMf3P2-I-ktBG8DMVjv1QX-pcb9afrUN6Lvr-cTgUfCivw2V9dGsJW?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mxujfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mtPV1YwwdwSH0Fb84UirUqTEiUWLVAxd53CzkqCv96l2fiEKVkEW15hVMmChjUJT0yl6_co01gVwcANv8baC-pLEnycc6WD9Fu6pwdy3gwWgBOhY6Cb7rbSU_IZVTfP11iaUvbEbgmNpjOvIZOMF7ZVSqV6yX3wdRdUI0699zyU9U-gjwMKaTuUCDw09UESc6?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mxuifw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mRpflQZG6CZpouzLTVvUYNa7W6AqGM6w9oGtOLat43V3sOAz4sWn1RpxIRASsutMwquLpChw5opHHCVazNr1S4sFnjIGS4u5cI7irutCJU3_opY-Q4WxjEAPSWmS1DFoGs5vvkJBYnjHywrrbV3ovHDZ7xB6NiLWQW-e4X-NoxXvIsKVTkAfZSTTYZdg-ZFOF?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mxukfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mOqKOBaEAFrymgiyIgaNvAgSFgPOo7dVdMgKJ5IBVAAJ6iFnWkng9KS9EL3rEHcelszCtuO4lY9tyK_8V--ebd9zffCakIYM9D7E7Wm_fVDRb6hi_q_ipA688fRLizkAkKswRVX522lf5wB2nGWKMQLe-RkegX_f1hBthdTdbnj2OrfLLBuJnZ7vnj59TAHp3?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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I draw the outline of the tips using a marker and then shape the tips using 80 grit sandpaper mounted on a flat surface.
(https://mxulfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mr1_HREMBS27SaUWEnEGzaTcrybbdJ_Tnrz1lAaRYx-A7r_5ySSSghPiZeFK4m4i-FphS8d6q4C--VZOjK1A4S_gF6NKIwgmie8HoQ6bZvsCl_TSviNrQZT7X8THMNYJw5E2eM0Oxd-d16anHr0vh0xAyv-kMh0MxM5sBxaq0WimHxfZSTRlJNxPq-smVjhyi?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mhucfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mFFn6q3y7vqXYCPo7SFuX7waj918jJl9r352cVxe0LDVxJBmo7dB-fv6yzQ9ZCiNcfgJyOhdCjzpH-3Vi58QvaUE0-dW7nMgxT7ZNaCLIs5BL9oRNIv_Ob9e4ewla6z7D05d0SUQX2_i6hP_dgSnt4-3Nlvy3hBH7pbP8H8m3RZ_kor3uwrVqJVYyd_GPFyvw?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mxuefw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mGUQ2BhcD9tfsk9MGnJSsXtex6CBOdusCpDiQU9rEtc91zggQ5F7ypV3IuFfAvAnZudJlJnK5uYIFgNQP0M4QK5ZZ_REgHOGjOjuunho8hThKtnnrVQsqnDg2ZuLwwiYqnyAoiNiIkd4NBR7H4PAJtJh2tcC6-N2DeNYfIIQ6L-tJjz4KEPP2AzbPQ0MghS5Q?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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Then I use a hand vice and a small file and rasp to give the tips the shape of an arrow head.
(https://mhugfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mfc5ksYEpKDveAVhLPNfbXrZx3KSg0LZ6ekDeXkmsqvVLSj_W4i1IfKFzRnflrch-3YIkukUtlgDmQ2Hawbmkye9F3bg0y7uenrAsvK7HPLAX_p2iDgpZwfETXyd3r6qggatpmyAZeZ2J3lo7ZXD6Rxg-0luWaciO-gDupnvOq2hAu9XDogv385hXr3W3g_gS?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mhuhfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mnA1SVoBI-IcZyv_-HTXB-ghka0uLY_8UzAoISkVInoJbu0a7A37Bt4WGe64iVzv-XktnHKKWaaaosuYsOBZpG9ewj3Y8DFFU4dNo5Qo7pALg_63Rshj9EyijEOPBg6BdJHUpMucMfZcV6ODvb6sXpBlyYWf3uyhhQHTU27JoLZ2Y65P-UHN4dzOy75yipyjf?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mxuffw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mV3oPrVHYu5jOHEDKsKk38G-stqakw02NcoL9EJFNn9CkJBl1bFXEJsg_eZj49T9TwnBKz_8vCi-N2Wy-3L5msNaYBUQ1dvd5RArpNGEa7ITw2LccvROVsoyc-n9xwavFvmXtuX7cD7_xhmNSFSCCsedwo_xtHGz3q95vKFNVRZQOcT3Otxu8phtMDwfdBaPd?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mhulfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4md1iX0t1DpEn8t5qpaB0VqAlgHhD1WoSbedZ5SEt1-J_9jjgTjwmV2-2d6k9qM0TSJH-zSWP73x5vwubyGpgVA4KQXzwFkgVWOJXiKZd5hbFTYEA6DirxZ_LHk8lVyqs0hj_Lh180EgFz1VR5WcEayp7Q1ouVKDm05XLDp4dDuKGCNGtvQRLM_ctOu3hRC7QZ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mhuifw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mB7viOCqz3Rl03cM67MohELIixtvFszmcQvKNxlVIVukU8-XSLK5jNOVCDNss4TNIFEuIt5TyrGfZCNsjulgPJsGk4I_98gn10nqJiuZv7M4DIchH9SbKYrr7USJ9vZ_Kz6R_oH-LE_Xxkbma6dFD_PrxkLHiLQNPndErJE3szjMAuRPbdoaGhZoHHgk1hVjx?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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I use a fine needle file to suggest the look of the knapped edges of an arrow head.
(https://mxucfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m_3YcCy-URbIsqmLG-ibied7l73N3a9inml6vCAR5L51ZBITLrAD6V6U0Mu94pktil4rm2wZRMEM76EJ24DFhRdfbYmm-EVSfBBrCVIvTaL4g9N3HygdqaZPPf68bigsGwQ1zogZSHZk8AChr3GuvSGes-WLYXmB3h7FMly1WKlPfdfx7IM9ZIT32AmLARVih?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mhujfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mfw9MZDqYiAg0ahU1ca4evX0G2cqs9iPCgdkCLvj7wvbvVYWi1lYWD1-PhUfI1iJgd68BpRWzxOr8zs_wvAwcrBRiBkE7b00lVNQvr18Cxt8gnEMewCHWzciqGmSXw0NTxjvHc7fSpkgCUPhAvUQbxnrZpJjdK_IAW-RifMfFDxvr90hIpXJqZetuwSGM4nAb?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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In preparation for gluing the tips, I flatten the surface of the tips with sandpaper mounted on a block.
(https://mhuffw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mHXhihWXsbZx_t5q0FuNnSKXXnBW0C-r2tOHvIw81hszxWh7ikG2p2vvlmVQ0ZLml3DOPB-0CK5lQCsElZAZ5X5ss687SwTS_zmoA7xEsJqD2bitrKPQ-G9UBIe_I9p1m4no3jCcAGsw9HCWhxb0_URUCIAs5UidBxHMDWirm5jM3UPcfMSpdTAzMXQH1LvAU?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
Then I glue the tips on with thick super glue.
(https://mxugfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mm55ia76gPxR-Xtjj1lHuaqpdIlcvfMdRK6YYf0RHRIMEjMHYWTqCGY3xpH1KSU3HUhENYvu31fPLpbI2nj6lzBzyibUDIJcvMEJ42IpegfEQZKljYBozbl3mbnHs-xSrF3K1ntpUYzaZZjaLxZCo-Pes9ooarPpW5FRxEs1_oYljcF5dasZL8TXbBcfZaSXJ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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Now I narrow and shape the tips and finish the string groves.
(https://mrudfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mfcQUYwSOarUTlXb_ZgAkF-XgyHGkPK-9NtdGKpuIAmHMpcH12MONapI1L3mYY_Eu7Kjfj1N2jc3j3uOWaHDU1dBbwnP4mGXp_4f070TR30WuH2XGsfNu49BUHlZOLMRzYgigY7-Ocsummg7CVP8pz5t7s3M3XLGdKcgwLplOhw6EyiXDXsoLNcHwB4dfMl-J?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mruffw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mcBt4sJ93gyomFjdvMLgF9bpvfP-CVlDJlfc9sgdxj5auJvRUHBkF6SBGKqE5UwFmmJb-Q_BvdZ9PIsKWus-NE4XLmNzWJmz3Fg3GsHVudbnhz8_Jupv0PRNBvtxiT8biUrYx93vUA1NkjaELZI8FxyRMeMHW2wmDGWOPGCQUB_cHzG0n-pqtbQoK5w0Vmy3d?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
(https://mruhfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4m9W9q4DstfzuGYS6csEUKwVCT344t13nqclWuw8QnNJcCSfD5pmxR5E9B6u75qNFwDIBKrcdZdoUB1h0faRqGM_1dweVc_ilGK4Rp2fJqpJi7_zWeomxayGT6cimkbqNL2poe-aDYGEDcJ05H3FTvTYbrmjSa5Lr0oHio71M_x_jUDxyiE3CwpZWUA7NjAgS2?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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I give the bow a good sanding and then finish tillering it. She settles in at 42# @ 27". That should be just about right for a female shooter.
(https://mxudfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mivob_9BgcEmgDVBJYtdo-RoAPNjhAqIvn8cdl7wCquJRK32meuaK_gjXn0AG3JTTjmwx0Ult9prIRFtSLlIrX6kRZUl54SwbgxpM__0851-13m8HL8r_qoDqaCaUctXFPzyHqg7EmzQnxHfPMC6JPKf0k8292SaKUUUpyNIGY6UlbdwOz-qJlqiCGlPJhTa1?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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I'll run the bow through my usual torture test next week and, if she survives, I'll finish her up.
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Good job taming a tough piece of wood. Is this for the woman I talked to on the phone a while back?
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Hey Weylin. Yeah this piece of wood presented more challenges than I had initially anticipated - lots of twists, dips, bumps, doglegs and inconveniently located knots. But it appears that wood and bowyer have found an accommodation - at least for now. This bow is not for the woman that called you. I tried to steer this gal your way also but she just had to have one of my bows and since she is a member of our black powder club I relented. I think she will like the bow - if it survives my torture test... It's great talking with you Weylin, I hope you and your family are doing well. We all miss you back here in the West.
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These are some of the best tips I have ever seen!
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These are some of the best tips I have ever seen!
+1 those tips are out of sight! :D
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Thanks for sharing this build. Very helpful tips and great workflow. Much appreciated!
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Thanks Gordon, it's a pleasure watching your buildalongs.
I know it is much work and it is a pain interrupting the workflow for doing pics, many thanks for that.
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Thank you sieddy and airkah. I am glad you like the tips. John Strunk invented this style and they are his signature tips.
Thanks Will and Simson, taking so many photos is a bit tedious at times, but overall I enjoy doing it and I am glad there are folks who appreciate seeing the steps that other use to make bows.
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Hey Gordon looks like your still building bows. You get out hunting with them much anymore. It's been awhile since I have talked to ya. Greg
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As others have said, I really enjoy seeing your workflow, Gordon. Those dips and twists out of the fades look challenging, and this build along makes me excited to get into some of my plum staves I have drying. Thanks for taking the time, really looking forward to seeing the finished product!
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I think I am going have to try and copy those overlays on my next bow. They are the nicest I have ever seen. Great work. Your build alongs have always been great!
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Beautiful bow - loved the build a long. Curious what your “torture test” involves?
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Hey Greg. Good hearing from you again! I'm hunting more now a days with the black powder guns that I built than with a bow.
Thank you Rakau. Those dips and twists turned out to be challenging. But I went slow and faithfully followed the contours of the back and it worked out.
Thank you Swampman, I am glad you like the tips and I look forward to seeing your interpretation.
Thank you Tommy. It's not so much a torture test as simply breaking in the bow. I have daily sessions of drawing the bow to full draw on my tiller tree mixed with shooting arrows out of it. So far the bow is holding up nicely. If it makes it through today without issues, I'll put a finish on it.
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It's always good to see your Build Alongs, Gordon and good to see you back. Why not post some of your Black Powders on the Muzzleloading Forum?
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Hey thanks Eddie, it is good to be among old friends again. I have posted my rifles on the forum, but it takes me about a year to build a rifle so it doesn't happen often.
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Those are without question the most beautiful tip overlays I've ever seen. Thanks for sharing.
Thomas
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Thank you for the nice compliment Thomas.
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I thoroughly stressed the bow this week and she made it through without any issues. After a few small tiller adjustments and final sanding the bow is pulling 40# at 27". That is perfect for the intended owner.
(https://jruffw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mwaVQIK89PaBaqqXdbYGYh64vmeXGpvQoQzqC1ioGhpMVo-F2kpRPijTMiceb8oVlSSgsv6_8JpK9Z328-8h5x2aYGTlbv8pJgU9D5LaDjneAQs7kvN9-RdFTNh42Gwqx0POyWPlBsOEcS3j71sY237aVIEPXDIBN6O1FMjHcURDcFdj59FLdq09g3cq-vmU9?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none)
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I like to build up the front of the handle because I think it makes the handle more comfortable for the shooter. I superglue three strips of rawhide together, roughly shape on a belt sander and then glue it to the handle. I should note that I flattened the front of the handle with a block and sandpaper before fastening the rawhide. I then bring the rawhide to final shape using a file and scrapper.
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I am going to put a coat of shellac on the bow to seal it and give it a bit of natural color. I break up the shellac flakes, mix them with alcohol and then set it aside for a few hours. Before applying the shellac, I rub the bow down with alcohol and let it dry. This causes the grain to raise slightly and I knock it back by lightly sanding with a fine grit sanding pad. I do this twice to make sure the grain will not raise anymore. When the shellac flakes have fully dissolved I apply the shellac to the bow with a brush. The wood darkens up a bit and I am happy with the result. I like the look of natural wood which is especially desirable for a bow that will be used for rendezvous.
(https://jrugfw.by.files.1drv.com/y4mqzNw8xpm1g7KYTg3n7zd04CJNXSw1sRQ9qdHQHjeAhbW7t4B2tzHh2bCLAsApwTdSgKD3X5ItM1L7O1ULcGgHMUcfRsFNJJZmSXxW2SBMMFNlibHWvUW6PBFPYLZWxaBg5PYkBbc56vfj9V5R-NYo6pJTkcaaS-sDDzcLIljloPgMv9kO_w1w_nYGhUSezdK?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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After the shellac has dried I go over it lightly with a fine grit sanding pad to knock down the remaining whiskers. Now I am going to apply the finish. I have recently began using Permalyn Gun Stock Finish by Laurel Mountain Forge to finish my bows. I like it because you rub the finish onto the surface with your finger or the palm of your hand and it dries quickly. That makes it really easy to avoid runs and dust particles. It is also easy to clean and thin using mineral spirits. I use this finish on my rifle stocks and can attest that it is just as good a finish as Tru-Oil. I will put on about 6 coats and lightly sand between each coat.
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I will pickup this thread again when I have all the coats of finish applied.
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The first coat of finish has dried and I am ready to write on the bow. I buff the surface with a fine grit wool and letter with an extra fine point industrial sharpie. I don't recommend using a regular sharpie as the letters will eventually fade. I wait several minutes to ensure the ink is dry and then apply the next coat of finish.
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Thanks for taking the time. Heck of a good build-a-long.
Mike
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Thanks for that buildalong.
This bow came out beautiful, I like the colors on the back!
Your friend will be happy.
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After applying 8 coats of finish it is time to rub out the finish. I start by taking out blemishes in the finish with 600 grit wet dry sandpaper applied wet. I do this carefully so as not to sand through the finish into the wood or lettering. I follow that with a medium fine grit abrasive wool and a super fine grit wool. I then buff out the finish using medium pumice in vegetable oil followed by fine pumice. This treatment leaves the finish silky smooth and glowing.
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I cut a patch of elk hide for the handle. I also cut an arrow pass from a scrap piece of deer hide. I fit the leather to the handle so that I have to stretch it just a bit to get the inside edges to touch. Then I punch holes in the leather to pass lace through.
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I stain the leather with mahogany leather dye and prepare the lace.
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(https://lrs49a.by.files.1drv.com/y4myOR1sBSalAKXUg04W7jnXuae9_yJfvxsVyEneHUhc3WPcJ4l18tDHUkiBkNsm86_Y8y0ngardWPbnKHD9sUKTA4od6nAE5ioosHVS0le7eSSBnxxflTlqMeNBiJigylfydLc1AklJqWnflqxgrPfXJD7v8WHmXJ6UhT7KnQLhuQ39uSGdCztsYxtgZHe4Qna?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none)
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This is a bow to be used for Rendezvous so in keeping with the bow I am going to keep the handle wrap simple.
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Now I glue on the arrow pass. Rendezvous rules don't generally allow the use of an arrow rest so this will be a simple shoot off the hand bow.
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I like to finish my handle wraps with a lacquer finish that is made for leather. It brings out the color in the leather and keeps the handle clean and nice looking even after years of use. I put on two coats letting the first coat dry before applying the second.
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Looks great gordo! Can’t wait for the glamour shots and hopefully the lady with it at full draw with an ear to ear smile on her face! I know I would!
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Here are some photos of the completed bow. I made this bow for a lady (Danae) in our black powder group to be used at rendezvous. The bow is made from a pair of plum billets that are spliced at the handle. I got the wood from a neighbor who was pruning trees in their yard. These were branches that came off the main trunk of a tree. The bow is 64” ntn and draws 40# @ 27”. I sealed the bow with shellac which gave it a bit of a blond tint and finished the bow with gun stock finish that I use on my black powder rifles. I flipped the tips up using steam and dry heat to give Danae’s arrows a little bit of extra zip. The tips are buffalo horn and are shaped to suggest stone arrowheads. Arrow rests are not allowed in rendezvous competition, so I designed the bow to be shot off the hand. The limbs have some twists, bumps and dips that added challenge to tillering, but it gives the bow character which is the kind of thing that folks at a rendezvous tend to appreciate – things handmade and one off. Our club’s annual rendezvous was cancelled this year due to the Corona virus, but hopefully I will see Danae enjoying her new bow at next year’s gathering.
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Beautiful Gordon! As usual :D
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Awesome bow all around....
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Very well done Gordon.The beauty of a wooden bow.Hard to believe there are'nt more people out there getting into it.Beadwork on quiver is loom beaded then attatched to leather with nice design.A once in a lifetime set up for somebody.
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Thank you sitxnstones.
Ed, my friend Ron York did the leather and beadwork on the quiver (and the belt bag). He sews on each bead individually by hand. He does beautiful work, though I don't know how he has the patience for it...
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Perfect example of excellent craftsmanship. Thanks for the build-a-long. Beautiful bow.
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Thank You Gordon for the very interesting build along. That’s a beautiful bow and I’m sure that lucky lady will be proudly smiling at the rendezvous.
Bjrogg
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Thank you Steve, I appreciate the compliment.
Thank you Bjrogg, I sent her a link to this thread and after seeing it she is very excited to receive the bow.
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Incredible work 👍🏻
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Another one added to my list of book marked reference articles, a real stunner for sure!
Quick question: Looking at the back of the bow one of the billets seems to have a fair bit of twist that looks to be ignored, is this an optical illusion, or is plum up to that kind of disregard for the grain?
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Wow, wow, wow. How could she not be excited? That's a real beauty.
Well done!
T
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Thank you silent sniper.
Rakua, Thank you for the compliment. There was quite a bit of twist after I spliced the billets but I got most of that out with dry heat (see page 2). Also I'm pretty careful about following the contours of the back including variations from side to side.
Thank you for the nice words WhistlingBadger.
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Great build Gordon. Very well done all around, your finish work is top notch.
Tell me about your needle you use for lacing...
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Hey Aaron, thank you for the compliment. I use 2-pronged leather lacing needles for the handle work. You can get these from any leather supplies outlet.
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Thank you
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Beautiful.
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very nice, thanks for sharing
Hans
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Very nice build along, incredible work, and very nice looking bow.
Looking forward for a similar project and can definitely use this.
Thank you!
BTW
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Beautiful all around. She will love it. Is the knife made from a bastard file?
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very well done!
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Thank you rps3.
Thank you for the kind words Hans.
Thank you BTW, I appreciate the compliment.
Thank you cutty. The throwing knife is forged from a farriers rasp, but that is not my work.
Thank you Paul.
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Beautiful bow! Excellent workmanship as always.
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Nice bow Gordon! That lower limb wood looks like it twists? I have some plum, not sure exactly which specific plum. Does plum stand for cutting through grain like vine maple?
Brian
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Thank you for your nice words Dvs.
Brian, The lower limb has a lot of grain twist, much more than I initially thought. I have made several bows from plum and have been impressed with the quality of the wood. I don't know that anything quite stacks up to vine maple for durability, but plum is probably pretty close.
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Thanks for the input, good to see you at the craft again!
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Hey Brian. Many of the people that I met in black powder/Rendezvous circles are really interested in one of a kind primitives bow. When you go to a Rendezvous or mountain man show, you will meet black smiths, blade makers, weavers, soap makers, clothing makers, hat makers, gun smiths, horn makers, tent makers…if it can be used in Rendezvous you will find someone that will make want you want or trade you for it. But if you want a primitive bow, you will likely have to make it yourself – good luck finding a bowyer who is tuned into the Rendezvous scene. I’ve donated/traded most of my surplus bows away and will make bows for friends who are willing to accept whatever I make (and so far no one has turned me down), but I’m not interested in getting into the bow making business because I have too many other things I’d rather do. So for you fellas that want to turn a few bucks making bows, you might want to check out the black powder/mountain man Rendezvous scene – I think there is an untapped source of demand for the stuff that we love to do here. And who knows you might like doing the black powder mountain man thing – it’s kind of addictive.