Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: stuckinthemud on February 10, 2017, 04:28:35 pm

Title: gorse
Post by: stuckinthemud on February 10, 2017, 04:28:35 pm

I have read that scotch broom makes excellent bows but it doesn't grow near me.  Gorse does, everywhere, sometimes up to about 8 feet in height with stems as thick as my wrist.  I believe gorse is closely related to scotch broom.  Anyone ever tried making a bow from gorse or am I gonna be the first one to try to get past all those spikes?   >:D

Title: Re: gorse
Post by: tattoo dave on February 10, 2017, 06:01:59 pm

Never heard of it, but my interest is peaked. Got any pics?

Tattoo Dave

Title: Re: gorse
Post by: penderbender on February 10, 2017, 07:20:19 pm

I think I remember reading somewhere about it being similar to broom, bow wood wise. We have them both here everywhere. It's just so thorny I haven't went into a good patch of it yet. Cut some if you have access to it. I wonder if it has nice chocolate brown heartwood like broom? Cheers- Brendan

Title: Re: gorse
Post by: DC on February 10, 2017, 07:43:07 pm

I cut a piece of broom to try for an arrow and it was very bendy, really low spine. For a bow you will probably need a proportionally thicker piece to get a decent draw weight. Assuming Gorse is as bendy as Broom.

Title: Re: gorse
Post by: ArrowStorm on February 10, 2017, 07:53:15 pm

I've been thinking about making a bow out of gorse or as it's known where I live as whin but can't find a bit the right length. But I have made a knife handle out of it that looks sick. Gorse is related to peas etc.

Title: Re: gorse
Post by: Pat B on February 10, 2017, 11:18:47 pm

I've seen lots of pics of gorse on BBC shows but not in person. The best way to find out if it will make a bow is to build a bow.  ;)

Title: Re: gorse
Post by: mikekeswick on February 11, 2017, 03:22:02 am

I think it would be best looking for billets. I've made a couple of cattys from it.