Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Bryce on December 10, 2012, 03:17:55 am

Title: Silk backing
Post by: Bryce on December 10, 2012, 03:17:55 am

Getting ready to back some ERC, I know rawhide and sinew are a good match.
But I wanna try silk, good idea? Or stick with rawhide?

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Auggie on December 10, 2012, 08:41:21 am

I think silk is the strongest most light weight material one can use for a backing. I have an HHB silk backed bow and it continues to be an awesome shooter.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: BowEd on December 10, 2012, 09:50:23 am

Good question Bryce.Is that fabric silk or string?You are the finish man for sure.Over sinew I'm sure it will work.Share your results.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Pat B on December 10, 2012, 10:16:16 am

I'd say silk should be a good match for ERC. It should make a very nice bow.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Bryce on December 10, 2012, 12:41:02 pm

I wanted something lightweight, yes the silk is veery strong. I'll let you know how it turns out :)

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: rossfactor on December 10, 2012, 12:42:50 pm

I dig silk backings, easy to apply and very strong.

Gabe

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: bow101 on December 10, 2012, 03:19:30 pm

I go to Thrift shops and pick up old silk ties for a $1.00. And some have very unique designs just a matter of finding what you want. I noticed old leather belts go real quick, they also sell very cheap. To go buy bulk leather from a shop is very costly.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Bryce on December 10, 2012, 05:24:16 pm

I have 3 yards of premium black silk. Acquiring silk isn't an issue :)
Do you stretch the silk before applying or lay it down just like linen?

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: bow101 on December 10, 2012, 06:43:43 pm

Stretching the silk is kind of a pain. Best thing is to roll it flat with a round object like a screw driver. Get the silk wet before you apply it... Never used linen myself.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Bryce on December 14, 2012, 03:11:20 pm

Is 5% mc too low for ERC?

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Will H on December 14, 2012, 03:14:11 pm

I think anything below 6% on any wood is askin for trouble.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Bryce on December 14, 2012, 03:36:38 pm

Yeah I was thinking the same thing.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Pat B on December 14, 2012, 03:44:20 pm

You want to be closer to 9% to 11%. If you use TB glue the moisture from the glue will go into the bow wood.

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: Bryce on December 14, 2012, 03:46:44 pm

I got her sitting in the bathroom :) she's up to 6% now.

ERC is some weird stuff...

Title: Re: Silk backing
Post by: ionicmuffin on December 14, 2012, 04:02:42 pm

lol. I have no idea what mines at, but if i know anything about my house its like 55% humidity sometimes 59%, so it could be a bit wet >< not sure of course, but well see.