Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Arrows => Topic started by: Black Moshannon on April 06, 2020, 09:40:07 am
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Here is a wild rose arrow I finished today. I make them one at a time, in a leisurely fashion. Shoot arrows warp over time so I look over mine before I go out to shoot and straighten as needed. I've had a few that have never warped. This one is 713 grains, and 11/32 diameter. The turkey fletching has a wrap through of dogbane, which I've taken to using instead of artificial sinew, and glued with hide glue. I use a hot hacksaw blade to trim the fletching. The broadhead is made from a heavy grade steel spoon, which work great, and sharpen to a razor edge beautifully. It's held on with sinew and hide glue. Most of my arrows look exactly like or similar to this one. For everyday practice, I use antler blunts, but I do shoot broadheads at boxes filled with rags.
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Like all bow and arrow wood well seasoned wood(shoots) are more stable and seem to warp less and stay straight. Also, tempering shoots will help keep them straight. I do this tempering after I've straightened them by slowly rotating them over a flame while slowly working down the shoot. A slight discoloration seem to be enough. Be careful as you reach the far end. Steam will be forced out and can really burn you. Don't ask how I know. ;)
While they cool lay them on a flat surface. You may have to do a little hand straightening after they cool but I've never had any trouble doing this.
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Ahh! Live and learn! Experience is the best teacher - if you survive! >:D
Hawkdancer
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I've had the idea to try something like that, but I was always afraid it would somehow permanently warp or damage the shaft. Can't wait to try it, on my very next one. I season the shafts for a year at least, generally, before working on them. I know they don't all need that long, but I have a lot on hand. Thanks for sharing that.