Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: billmac on July 30, 2007, 02:13:45 pm

Title: handle / fades
Post by: billmac on July 30, 2007, 02:13:45 pm

My son and I have been roughing out bows for the last few days.  Hickory, ash, and elm.  We're using 4" handles with 3 inch fades.  I wonder if we're overdoing the non-working portion of the bow.  I also wonder if a 5" handle might be better if we intend you add an arrow rest.

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: GregB on July 30, 2007, 02:17:58 pm

I usually go with a 4" handle, and from 1-1/2" to 2" fades.  :)

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: Justin Snyder on July 30, 2007, 02:28:55 pm

I go 5" handle with 2" fades, but I have big hands.  If you like a bulkier handle the 2" makes it a more aesthetic fade.  If you like smaller handles, the 1 1/2" is plenty. Justin

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: Pat B on July 30, 2007, 04:58:51 pm

I make mine like Greg; 4" handle and 1 1/2" fades.  Pat

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: D. Tiller on July 30, 2007, 07:54:55 pm

Mine 4" handles and no fades....Its an english longbow!!!  ;D

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: Pappy on July 31, 2007, 05:53:16 am

I'M with Greg and Pat Of course I don't have a big hand.I figure why wast working limb. ;D
   Pappy

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: Hillbilly on July 31, 2007, 08:35:31 am

Usually 4" handle with 1 1/2"-2" fades. I like small handles, the thick bulky ones just don't feel right to me.

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: MattE on July 31, 2007, 08:42:49 am

You can go with a five inch handle just add a few inches to the limbs. You will maintain the same basic feel.

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: George Tsoukalas on July 31, 2007, 09:04:28 am

There's  a little bit  on handles on my site. Jawge

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: RT on November 19, 2007, 04:07:04 am

can any one show me some pics of the 4" handles and 2" fades,

does these kind of handles have cut in shelfs or a Build-up shelfs.........

Thanks! RT

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: George Tsoukalas on November 19, 2007, 10:00:22 am

My site.
http://mysite.verizon.net/georgeandjoni/archer.html

Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: Ryano on November 19, 2007, 10:04:02 am

I use a 4" handle but my top fade usually is a bit longer than my bottom one because I prefer to put the the center of the bow right at the handle dip/locater. I try to make the fades as short as possible and still work OK. I always figure the more working limb the better. I use both cut in and leather shelves.....

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Title: Re: handle / fades
Post by: adb on November 19, 2007, 10:54:16 am

Hi,
I don't have small hands, but I never go more than 4" for the handle/grip, and usually 1 1/2" on the fades. The fades really depend on what type of bow you're making. If it's a bendy handle, or ELB, the fades really don't exist. If you're making a rigid handle, more target style bow, your fades can be 2" to 3". Careful you don't make them too long, otherwise your bow turns out whip tillered. If you make a rigid handle bow, keep it long (>68"), to give yourself enough limb to work with. Good luck.