Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => HowTo's and Build-a-longs => Topic started by: KelRob on August 30, 2015, 08:02:00 pm

Title: first time red oak bow questions
Post by: KelRob on August 30, 2015, 08:02:00 pm

Hi,

 I am going to be making 2 red oak 66" longbows. I have 2= 1" x 2" x 72" boards and 1 1"x 2" 24", for the riser, with good straight grain. 1 of the 72" is flat and the other has a concave bow shape. I have a few questions:

 1. Would one use the concave board? To shorten it, I would cut equal parts off each end.
  1a. Would one put the riser on the concave or convex side?

 2. Does it matter if one would to shape the 3/4" down to 3/8" then shape the 1 1/2" down to 1/2?

 3. Is a backing needed? I plan on keeping one for myself and another as a gift and want them to last.
  3a. If I need to use a backing, What would be a good inexpensive backing material be?

Thanks,
 KelRob
 

Title: Re: first time red oak bow questions
Post by: Knoll on August 30, 2015, 08:26:46 pm

imo . . . . .
can use concave board and put riser on convex side.

what's purpose of changing /4 to 3/8 and 1 1/2 to 1/2?

backing material ... ya speaking of a flexible backing such as fabric?

Title: Re: first time red oak bow questions
Post by: KelRob on August 30, 2015, 08:42:44 pm

 The taper was to go to the tips.

 Was thinking wood instead of fabric for the backing, if needed.

Title: Re: first time red oak bow questions
Post by: bowandarrow473 on August 30, 2015, 09:03:03 pm

You might get some more replies if you posted this in the bows section unless you want to make a build along of course. ;)

Title: Re: first time red oak bow questions
Post by: KelRob on August 30, 2015, 09:15:59 pm

Thanks Bowandarrow473. Just did