Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: fenciii on November 04, 2011, 09:29:42 pm
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Hi all..I am hoping you can all help me with this question. Being the experts I'm sure you can! Please keep in mind I am brand new and have only one bow under my belt.
I have stumbled across some cedar and had heard that you can make a bow out of it. Here are my questions;
1. Does it matter what kind?
2. Can I do it?
3. would it make a good bow?
4. any suggestions on best methods for cedar if yes?
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Eastern Red Cedar (ERC) Needs backed but will make a decent bow, as will allot of Cedars. Most junipers that are in the Cedar family will make a great bow especially when backed with sinew. True Cedars should be backed for safety. They can let go with no warning and the do explode spectacularly.
Some Junipers can make a self bow if the right type. Mountain juniper is a very tough one that will make a self bow.
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I recently made a 66" rawhide backed ERC that is shooting really well and has accounted for two deer so far this season. Bear in mind that, as mentioned, some cedars are just that: cedar, while what we call Eastern Red Cedar is actually a juniper. Usually needs a backing, but is very light so it shoots hard for its draw weight. All in all a fine and pleasant wood.
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I wonder, would hickory or bamboo make a decent backing? Or better to go with rawhide or sinew?
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Sinew and juniper is excellent! I have an ERC that I am just about ready to sinew. Just my preference. I tend to like sinew over other type of backing just because of the advantages it gives.
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how do I tell if the cedar that I have is juniper?
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You'll know if you have eastern RED cedar(aka juniperus virginiana)by the color of its deep red to almost purple heartwood if the woods cut already. Also junipers will have a dark blue to black berry and not cones if your trying to id it as a tree. Also post a pic here and we'll id it
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It was not by your description...plus it was rotten...i was hoping it was ok...but it had several larva through out
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fenciii, where are you ??
that will help us determine which "cedar" you're talking about.
probably not eastern red cedar that you're talking about as the heartwood is very rot resistant.