Hello to all who inhabit the forums of the Primitive Archer! I just joined these forums yesterday as I am nearing full-on submerging myself in the making of two primitive longbows. And I've come to you all for guidance . . . Last October I cut down a nice white oak and split the trunk in half, and each have in quarters. The staves have been drying in our basement ever since. Being that summer's come and is currently on its way home, I feel that now is the time to begin the intimidating craft, as I have a December 25th deadline . . . So! With that said, I have some questions for those of you who would care to offer me any advice; I would greatly appreciate it.
1) Is White Oak a decent enough choice for one's first primitive longbow?
2) Some of the staves I have may have a small knot here or there, as well as a bend, will these factors damage the integrity of the bow's backing? (Which I intend to keep just wood, no burlap or anything like that, I just wanted a solid piece of wood)
3) I have read about others who shaved down their bow's backing to one solid growth ring in order to maintain integrity, is this good practice?
4) In terms of a hand-rest, I have never shot a bow without a hollowed-out arrow rest which centers the arrow more solidly on the string. Should I attempt to make such a rest, or should I go for over-all integrity and primitive nature with a leather rest wrapped around the solid wood?
- Also, can a primitive longbow, as such, be ambidextrous?
5) In terms of tillering, what advice would you offer a greenhorn?
6) Have you built any devices which aid in the shaving of a stave with a draw knife, allowing for stability and maneuverability?
I can post some pictures of the wood I have to work with later on. I appreciate any help and guidance you all may care to offer, truly. As I progress, I may have some more questions to toss at ya'
. . .