Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: king3933 on June 16, 2007, 11:40:50 am

Title: Handles for selfbows
Post by: king3933 on June 16, 2007, 11:40:50 am
When making a handle for a selfbow made out of a board is there a certain pattern to go by and rules of thumb to use as a guide? I never seem to get them to look like they due on other bows. They fit my hand and feel good but the general shape seems to be different then say on a Hill bow. Any advice would be of great help also backing with dry wall tape does this help cast in any way or just a breaking preventive? Also is there a certain type of dry wall tape to use or just any kind will due?

God Bless:
Gary
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: Pat B on June 16, 2007, 11:46:55 am
I personally wouldn't use drywall tape, but thats just me. Lots of other backing will work just as well. A simple backing like drywall tape, brown paper bag or linen are primarily for insurance reasons and not to add performance. Sinew, bamboo or hickory will add performance to a self bow.
   I prefer the Torges type bulbous handles for self bows.     Pat
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: Justin Snyder on June 16, 2007, 12:16:31 pm
The only rule of thumb for me is you have to like it.  If it is comfortable to you then don't worry about it.  There are lots of different styles of handle.  You are making the bow to make yourself happy. So make the handle that makes yourself happy.  Justin
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: Coo-wah-chobee on June 16, 2007, 01:32:53 pm
       ........................... I like "bendy handle", meanin' no handle, usually no grip wrap either..............bob
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: NOMADIC PIRATE on June 16, 2007, 10:12:28 pm
Bob, you cave man ;D ;D ;D


Of all the backing out there, drywall tape ??
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: david w. on June 16, 2007, 11:08:17 pm
im doing my very first bow and i backed it with drywall tape. i hope that it isn't to bad because i want my bow to turn out good.
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: DanaM on June 17, 2007, 07:55:34 am
David don't worry about the drywall tape, the main thing is take yer time and you should be allright.
If you post some pics everyone here will help with the tillering etc. Don't be too disappointed if your 1st
bow doesn't come out as you envisioned, if it holds together than you were successful. There will a 2nd and 3rd
bow soon, as it sounds like you have the addiction. ;D
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: david w. on June 17, 2007, 12:59:04 pm
ok im going to start tillering as soon as i get my strings. ill post pics once my mom comes back home with the digital.

it will probably be a week but probably two by the time im finished
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: Pat B on June 17, 2007, 01:35:46 pm
David, Don't worry about when you will be finished! Take it a step at a time, use good judgment, don't get in a rush and it will be a shooter before you know it. ;) We will be here when she's ready to show off! ;D    Pat
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: david w. on June 17, 2007, 02:30:17 pm

thanks Pat B.  ill take it slow and  make it right. I wont rush it

king3933 sorry for highjacking your thread
Title: Re: Handles for selfbows
Post by: Eric Krewson on June 18, 2007, 12:50:43 am
I sometimes see selfbow handles that are much too high, usually narrow and high. Bows with this type of handle are real easy to torque when you shoot. I make my bow-handle combination no more tan 1 1/2" thick.