Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: loefflerchuck on February 23, 2011, 12:42:24 am
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Got a stave of yew with recurves already steamed in but the blank is backwards. I have read about backward bows but never tried one. The stave is I think about 46". I want to make it a California style paddle bow with a healthy sinew backing. My question is what are the capabilities of this backwards sinew backed bow? I have made many California flatbows and for a 46" bow I usualy draw it 24-25". Can this be done with a backward bow, or should the draw be less? Anybody????
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Never tried yew but built a backwards Osage and it worked out fine. I know yew is strong in compression and most folks leave some sap wood on the back,you wouldn't have that option but you plan on sinew anyway, I would go for it,but thats me. :)
Pappy
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Yew sapwood doesn't like the compression it would experience on the belly of a bow. But if your blank is heartwood only, there's no harm in making a 'backward bow'. The sinew will be an excellent backing.
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why did they steam them backwards?? like suggested, just remove the sapwood and back the other side with your sinew. this may give you a rounded belly depending on the size of the stave.