Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Jakesnyder on September 09, 2018, 05:07:02 am
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Does anyone dry there staves using a heat box? Can someone give me some plans to make one?
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I made a 6' long horizontal rectangle out of 1x12's and insulated it. I cut an 8" circle in each end and use a small space heater to keep warm air flowing through it. I have this hanging on the wall of my shop on shelf brackets. I use it to dry out bow blanks.
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I use a Toyota, Tacoma model, 2004 for my stave drying. It's convenient because it's not only a stave drying box, it can also be used to transport you to work or other place you may need to go.
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High Desert,
It also has neat racks to lay the bows on, and a good ventilation system with variable temperature control? >:D (lol). Probably also handy for beer runs, etc!
Hawkdancer
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I use mine some. I do most of my bow work in the winter and my wood stove is my stave drier. I made it from Bingham's Projects(a sponsor) pattern but you can make one with 1/2" or 3/4" foam board and duct tape.
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I build mine out of 1/4" plywood screwed to a frame. I could only get 90 degrees in the winter out in the unheated garage until I insulated it with cheap foam board, it will get really hot now, I have never maxed it out so I don't know how hot. I use three lights on a dimmer switch and have vents in the top and bottom for natural convection for air flow. I built a shelf about the center of the box to disperse the heat and keep the wood away from the lights.
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How long does it take you to dry out a stave? Can you dry one in a matter of weeks?
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All depends on the type of wood. Some whitewoods, yes but generally longer drying/seasoning time is better for more stable bow wood.