Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: nugget on February 12, 2011, 10:14:44 pm

Title: heat treatment
Post by: nugget on February 12, 2011, 10:14:44 pm

I have made a black locust bow and have shot it some. Can I heat treat it and try to put some reflex in it? It has not been sealed or finished out. After seeing PatBs locust bow I was wanting to heat treat this one.

Title: Re: heat treatment
Post by: eflanders on February 12, 2011, 10:20:37 pm

If it is a self-bow or one continuous piece of wood, yes.  Because of the high temperatures needed to properly temper the wood and/or form the wood, most glues will let go in a lamination.

Title: Re: heat treatment
Post by: Pat B on February 12, 2011, 10:42:53 pm

TJ, I was pleased with the tempering I did on the locust Eastern Woodland bow I made. Locust seems to show color quicker than whitewoods. Toast it to a chocolate brown(belly only) and leave it in the form over night and give it a few days to rehydrate before stressing it. As long as the set isn't too severe it should hold some reflex.

Title: Re: heat treatment
Post by: nugget on February 12, 2011, 11:19:54 pm

Thanks . The set is minimal and my plans are for mild reflex