Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: stuckinthemud on August 17, 2023, 04:33:06 am

Title: Pitch over sinew?
Post by: stuckinthemud on August 17, 2023, 04:33:06 am

Just a random thought that hit me, I know sinew can be protected by many different coverings, has anybody used a pitch/pine tar type of moisture barrier or are they inflexible/prone to cracking?

Title: Re: Pitch over sinew?
Post by: superdav95 on August 17, 2023, 09:20:30 am

I think it would be a mess but I’m sure it can be done.  The pine pitch arrow hefting glue I use for my primitive arrow points are also wrapped with sinew and combine well. Only thing is that the hefting glue can be brittle depending on mixture.  What about a shellack or something like that to cover?   

Title: Re: Pitch over sinew?
Post by: Pat B on August 17, 2023, 10:09:48 am

I use pine varnish, hard, brittle pitch dissolved in alcohol over sinew wraps on arrows but not on bows. I guess if you made true varnish with a solvent, an oil and the pitch it could be done. The oil would soften it up enough to allow constant bending, make it more flexible. I think hand rubbed fat(bear, deer, etc.) heated and mixed with pitch would be a better option but it would only be water repellent and not water proof.