Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: osage outlaw on December 01, 2011, 08:51:38 pm
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This summer I found this roughed out bow under our bed. The back had been chased to a single ring and sealed. I did not remember it at all. I guess I roughed it out last year and stuck it under there to dry and forgot about it. I haven't had much if any time for bow building this summer/fall, but now things are starting to slow down a little. I weighed the stave in Aug. and it was 32.8 oz. I weighed it today and it was 32.7 oz, so I guess it is dry. It has a bend in one limb right at the fade making one limb deflexed by several inches. I can't decide if I should leave it, or try to straighten it. I was hoping for some opinions on what route I should go. Also, if I leave it, would it be better as the upper or lower limb? Thanks for any advice.
(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r55/clintanders/SDC14397.jpg)
(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r55/clintanders/SDC14395.jpg)
(http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r55/clintanders/SDC14390.jpg)
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Deflex/reflex stave from the looks of it. I think that would be safer than trying to bend it the other way and risk popping the handle off.
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If it was me I would bend it, I had one like that curved in both limbs,the result was both limbs curved worse when bow was finished.hope you get your info.
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I would steam the entire stave and clamp it to a simple reflexed form.
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Yup, steam the whole thing and reflex it evenly mand line the tips and handle up in one shot.....................or just send it to me!
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How thick is the limb at the fades. If thick enough take some of the handle off so there is less of a chance of it popping off. I'd use a heat gun and oil and just take it slow clamping it to a slightly reflexed form.
If you decide to use steam be sure to shellac the whole stave before steaming to keep that dry wood dry.
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I guess I am going to have to build a reflex form. Thanks for the advice guys.
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I use my relfex form for all kinds of tasks Clint. It works just to straighten sections, or reflex the whole bow. Its a handy piece of 2x to have around for sure.
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Left as is makes for tough tiller. If it still wet so steam is the way to go. If dry the a heat gun would work to. I don't have a forma and use my wood vice to heat and bend. Jawge
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I use my relfex form for all kinds of tasks Clint. It works just to straighten sections, or reflex the whole bow. Its a handy piece of 2x to have around for sure.
I got a piece of 4"x4" fiberglass angle about 6' long for straightening. It is very sturdy, but is still lightweight. I just don't have a reflex form yet. It is on my to do list for this winter. I guess I will have to get going on it. I plan on following Gary Davis' layout measurements.
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Good chance to try out that new bandsaw! ;) A 2x6, 68" long with 3" of smooth reflex won't take long to make and with the amount of osage you have you'll wear it out before you run out of wood. ;D Attach it to a 2x8 and you can add reflex plus straighten lateral bends. ;D
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It will be neat to see how it turns out. I wish I could find osage under my bed!
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You didnt want any Ryan! Dont even start crying now pal!