Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Iukee on November 19, 2009, 03:56:48 pm

Title: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: Iukee on November 19, 2009, 03:56:48 pm

 Waiting on my B/L staves to dry, want to build an American longbow 68#to 70#@ 26", 68" ntn. My handle area will be 5". Can I get this bow if I go 1 1/2"wide? Snaky stave. What's your thoughts? Thanks guys

Title: Re: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: makenzie71 on November 19, 2009, 05:24:15 pm

If you're going for a selfbow I think you can do that with osage.  I know I have no issues getting into the 65~75lb area using dense red oak backed with bamboo or glass.

Title: Re: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: Iukee on November 19, 2009, 06:30:55 pm

Yea, I'm going for an unbacked selfbow here I may just go for 70". I have plenty of stave to work with. It is black locust though.

Title: Re: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: Pat B on November 19, 2009, 06:57:51 pm

BL is strong in tension and one of the strongest woods in the US in compression but it is brittle and shows that by easily fretting if your tiller isn't just right. I would start with a wider stave(1 3/4" or so) and 68" should be fine for 26" draw. If the limbs seem to be getting thin start reducing the width as you tiller. Keep the belly as flat as you can and take your time, be patient and you will be able to reach your goal with BL

Title: Re: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: Iukee on November 19, 2009, 07:06:21 pm

Pat B- I hadn't thought about that approach. That's a can't miss.

          Thanks

Title: Re: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: Pat B on November 19, 2009, 07:41:40 pm

Don't get too cocky! ;D  It will come back and bite you. ;)

Title: Re: American longbow rectangular cross section??
Post by: Iukee on November 19, 2009, 07:58:45 pm

Ha Ha Ha ! I know that's right- Ron