Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: JonW on December 07, 2010, 01:11:53 am

Title: Flexible handle material
Post by: JonW on December 07, 2010, 01:11:53 am
I am looking for some ideas for a flexible handle for a BITH bow. What have some of you guys used to build up the belly a little? I was thinking leather but what type of glue will allow it to remain flexible but stay durable.
Title: Re: Flexible handle material
Post by: Pat B on December 07, 2010, 01:33:01 am
I use thick shoe leather to pack out handles and to make handle risers for bendy handle bows. I rough shape the leather first, soak it well in warm water until it is flexable and glue it down with TBIII glue(any water based carpenters glue). I also use fat rubber bands to wrap it until it dries. Once dry you can do a final shaping with a rasp and sand paper. I sometimes saturate the leather with super glue if it is going to be exposed. It makes a neat looking handle.
  You can see the leather oval on the back of this handle to round it out for a better hand fit.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/handles002.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/handles003.jpg)
Title: Re: Flexible handle material
Post by: Pappy on December 07, 2010, 06:12:42 am
I do the same as Pat,leather,I usually use thinner strips and just build them up. :) Either will work just fine. :)
   Pappy
Title: Re: Flexible handle material
Post by: bucksbuoy on December 07, 2010, 10:30:22 am
rawhide with knox gelatine. its cheap easy and and and authentic!
Title: Re: Flexible handle material
Post by: George Tsoukalas on December 07, 2010, 10:52:24 am
Here's a buildalong for handles.
http://georgeandjoni.home.comcast.net/~georgeandjoni/leatherhandle.html
Jawge
Title: Re: Flexible handle material
Post by: Traxx on December 07, 2010, 03:06:05 pm
If you cant get ahold of any thicker Skirting or tooling leather,i have used Cork as well.Glued it with Contact Cement.You can find Cork sheeting,at Craft Stores and at Most Hardware and Auto supply stores.
Title: Re: Flexible handle material
Post by: PeteDavis on December 07, 2010, 03:56:04 pm


I use EPDM pond liner material layered with super glue gel. It will not absorb water and makes a relatively stout buildup with just a tad of give. PM me if you want some.

PD

(http://www.fototime.com/F4279F16B1CC029/standard.jpg)

(http://www.fototime.com/F4B57BACB654CAB/standard.jpg)

(http://www.fototime.com/6F511D3DD9D131B/standard.jpg)