I need help. My recurves keep cracking

[SLIMBOB]

This may be just a perceived bias and I accept that I can be proven wrong, but when I am bending something with dry heat, I sand the belly several times throughout as I go.  It seems to keep these tears from happening.  Or so I would argue.

[bushboy]

interesting point about temp and altitude!if I remember correctly,2 degrees f is lost for every 1000' of rise.

[DC]

Denver is about 205f I think.

[mikekeswick]

For the really sharp bends soak the staves end in water for 3 days or so. Then boil it.  Thin steel straps are useful too IF you work out your jigs so it doesn't take more time.
It may take a little longer with the soaking time but for the tightest of tight bends there is no other way and of course green wood with the sap up makes a lot of difference if possible.

[loon]

Code: [Select]

http://www.core77.com/posts/35838/A-Better-Way-to-Steam-Wood-for-Bending-Use-a-Plastic-Bag