Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: snag on November 05, 2010, 02:24:11 pm
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This is my first attempt at a selfbow. I was so eager to build this I didn't think it through.
(http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u31/snag23/shop002.jpg)
This above picture is of the belly of this hazelnut stave. I made the mistake of taking wood off of the back! I know...stupid! Anyway, here is a picture of the back..
(http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u31/snag23/shop001.jpg)
There is a lot of wood still to bring this down to a workable bow. But since I have violated the back is it possible to still make a bow out of this? It is extremely hard
to see growth rings in this light colored wood. I was told I could chase a ring...but I don't know if I can see one! Just hate to think this is now kindling.... :(
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You can rawhide back it. I'm pretty sure that ought to work. But more importantly is SLOW DOWN...lol. Slow is smooth; smooth is fast. Best of luck.
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I'm wondering if you can smooth the rasp marks out, scrape the remainder of the stave to have a similar crowned back and perhaps back it with something, linen, silk, rawhide?
Just a thought.
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Parnell, that is what I am wondering too. Nothing to lose at this point I guess....other than more work on it.
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You can rawhide back it or silk would work. There is also sinew too,
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You can do just about anything to the back of a hazel stave. The wood is so homogeneous that you don;t have to worry about violations on the back.
Just work it down to a nice and smooth and flat surface and you'll be fine, I've done it before and with success I might add. That's why I love hazel, its almost like working with clay; easy to work with and endless possibilities!
Good Luck!
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Jorad, really? Should I still back it with sinew or something?
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Do what Jorad said and if it lifts a splinter, back it with rawhide.