Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Pat B on January 10, 2012, 09:50:51 pm

Title: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 10, 2012, 09:50:51 pm
  I decided to use this osage pole stave for a trade bow on TG. When I started a few days ago I had half of a 2" osage pole with just the bark taken off and the back sealed with shellac and the last 8" of the tips narrowed. Looked like this...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole003.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole002.jpg)

Here it is after a little wood removal and a little heat. There is a dogleg at one end with a knot there on the edge. I'm leaving the dogleg alone unless I need to make allignment adjustments. Even though this stave has natural reflex it wasn't even so I used the heat gun and some olive oil to even out the reflex. I reflexed each limb seperately. Here is one limb on the caul...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole001.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole002.jpg)

...and the end results...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole004.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Will H on January 10, 2012, 09:57:29 pm
Thats lookin great Pat! Cant wait to see how it turns out!
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: gstoneberg on January 10, 2012, 10:07:19 pm
Looks good Pat.  I see lots of osage that size from guys selling fence spreaders down here.  Most aren't that straight though...  Never tried making a bow out of wood that small a diameter.  Looking forward to how it turns out for you.

George
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Lee Slikkers on January 10, 2012, 10:23:32 pm
Neat project Pat, I can't tell from the pics but is all the sapwood removed or are you leaving that on?  Thanks~
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on January 10, 2012, 10:32:44 pm
Tah-dah! I cant wait to shoot it Pat! Err towards the light side of my target draw weight with a bow reflexed that much. Thanks!
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: bcbull on January 10, 2012, 10:37:08 pm
hey pat looks neat  got me thinkin here whens out p a bow trade sign up gonna be ?? been watchin waitin for it brock ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Ifrit617 on January 11, 2012, 12:03:36 am
Awesome Pat!

Like I said before this is one thread that i will be following closely.

Jon
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 11, 2012, 12:42:27 am
Lee, all I did was remove the bark. All of the sapwood is still there and is part of the bow. There are only 2 or3 sapwood rings. You can see it on the end grain in the first few pics and along the sides of the heartwood in the belly close up.  Due to the high crown I will back with rawhide.

Brock, I'm not sure. I'll check into it.

Probably will be anyway Pearlie.  ;)

George, this is sucker growth either from a stump or a water shoot in a tree. Vertical growth. I thgink this stave has about 12 growth rings.

Thanks Will and Jon. I'm looking forward to it too.  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: criveraville on January 11, 2012, 01:10:40 am
Pat looks like another great build! That's a pretty color on that pole.

Cipriano
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: blackhawk on January 11, 2012, 08:48:39 am
Ya gonna hang a nice flag on that pole too,or do a dance for us on that yeller pole ::)...lol :laugh:

It'll be interesting to see a high crown sap on osage bow bend...hope the rawhide holds her down...it should and not sure if I wood try that unbacked... ::)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pappy on January 11, 2012, 09:01:57 am
Good looking start Pat ,that should be a fine stick. :) :) I never really done a sap wood on Osage but I know you have and Sonny done them all the time without issue. :) :)
   Pappy
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: _Jon_ on January 11, 2012, 10:16:14 am
Nice one Pat!  I love it.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 11, 2012, 11:15:45 am
Sonny is where I got the idea to build a bow like this, Pappy.  For those that don't know, Sonny Imans was a bowyer from Ohio that was interviewed in an old PA magazine by a guy named Dane Snodgrass. The article was called Limbows and this is the kind of bows Sonny built. I had the the privledge to spend about 30 minutes with Sonny at Farmland Indiana years ago on a trip back home from, Northern Indiana to NC. Sonny's bows were excellent, hard shooting hunting limbows. Just peel the bark and make a bow.   Look up the old article, read it and try it for yourself.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pappy on January 11, 2012, 11:34:00 am
You are right Pat,we camped with him for years at Cloverdale,the bows were works of Art. I still regret not get one of them. :) Good luck on that one,looking forward to seeing it shooting. :)
   Pappy
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: swamp yeti on January 11, 2012, 11:44:43 am
That is going to be a nice one Pat.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 11, 2012, 11:48:05 am
I regret not getting one of Sonny's bows too. He and I talked about a trade and even got each others info but it never came about. Herb Reynolds, the founder of Carolina Traditional Archers, was a friend of Sonny's and had 3 of his bows. I got to shoot one of Herb's a few times but that's all. The interview for the article in PA took place at Herb's house in NC where CTA was formed and the original NC State Trad Archery Championship Shoot took place.
  I know these poles will make excellent bows! I just don't know if I can do it justice like Sonny did.

  Thanks Yeti. 
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: sadiejane on January 11, 2012, 12:06:00 pm
wow pat-thats gonna be a sweet shooter im sure.
been wanting oh so bad, to do a similar bow.

can you reference year and issue of pa that article was in?
thanks!

really look forward to you progress on this one
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 11, 2012, 12:30:52 pm
Sadie, I'll look it up when I get home from work this afternoon.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pappy on January 11, 2012, 12:31:04 pm
Volume 3 issue 1.
   Pappy
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 11, 2012, 12:32:03 pm
Thanks Pappy. You are right on it!!!  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: druid on January 11, 2012, 12:48:55 pm
I believe in you Pat!  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: ErictheViking on January 11, 2012, 01:35:10 pm
Good looking so far Pat. I always look at the straight little branches that grow after a tree has been trimmed and think I should cut some of those.  Just reminded me to do just that. :)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Buckeye Guy on January 11, 2012, 05:00:04 pm
I have thought about Sonny allot again lately I need to do a limbow I guess !
I had a man tell me he had a couple of limbs for me to trim out of his Hedge apple tree so I may be going to do it soon !
I just finished rereading the first tree years of PA so I knew the article was in about year three but I see Pappy already knew which issue so he must have had Sonny on his mind too!
I think I will check with the OSTA folks and see what shoot his wife will be at,I might have one more trip to make this year!
Guy
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: sonny on January 11, 2012, 09:02:30 pm
<<<<<
and here I thought y'all were talkin' about me.  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: mullet on January 11, 2012, 11:48:04 pm
 Look's like you're off to a good start, Pat. Can't wait to see it and I know you'll do it justice. When was the last time you threw that Castnet in the corner? ::) ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 12, 2012, 02:16:18 am
At least 21 years.  ::) ...but it is like riding a bike! I could be throwing full circles in no time if given the chance.  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: randman on January 12, 2012, 02:47:20 am
I'm a big fan of limbows! That's what most of mine are. Never had a big trunk to split proper staves out of. Kind of like it that way, less work. Course I would like to try a nice stave of Osage someday so I'd know what all you Hedge Jockeys are talkin about.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Little John on January 12, 2012, 03:47:17 am
Anxious to see this one. How long and stout is it going to be and how is the hanle going to be? Looks like you have to leave it wide or build it up. Good luck and am sure it will be real nice.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: soy on January 13, 2012, 02:50:04 am
Looks real good with those red knots in that yella wood...do it proud  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 13, 2012, 11:43:14 am
Kenneth, The stave is 64"t/t and I'm looking for 50#+. I will add a handle rised. Probably built up leather so the bow will bend in the handle at full draw.
  This stave does have nice color, soy.
Randman, Most folks don't realize how little osage it takes to make a good bow.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: MWirwicki on January 13, 2012, 11:55:49 am
Can't wait to see her progress, Pat.  It looks like a premium piece.  I had the pleasure of sitting with Sonny and his wife several times at the Primitive Rendezsvous at Marshall, MI.  He was certainly a first-rate fella.  I made a few of the limbows.   The knots were the trickiest.  The sapwood didn't like to hold up around them.  I cured them with back sinew wraps. 
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: crooketarrow on January 13, 2012, 12:11:49 pm
  I always spray with a pestaside as soon as I cut the stave. If you debark you get rid of the eggs. The eges are are ready layed so if you don't spray they will hatch. They won't infeast your house they only lay eges in green bark. And the hatchings only eat green wood.

  Feel the holes witrh super glue. I mix with saw dust but sence your sinewing you won't see it so no need. I made bows and left the holes it won't hunt it if it's not on a edge.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: crooketarrow on January 13, 2012, 12:13:21 pm
   Don't know why this posted here.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Elktracker on January 13, 2012, 04:07:37 pm
Look forward to seeing your progress on this one Pat I need to get me a trade going on a sapling like this I really want to try one.

Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 13, 2012, 05:28:57 pm
Josh, you have access to some proven sapling bow woods with Keenan and Gordon both doing the practice runs.  :D  Choke cherry, service berry, juniper, vine maple, yew and I'm sure there are others. Gordon has a hazel bow build along in the How To setion.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Elktracker on January 13, 2012, 06:08:41 pm
I have built sapling bows, I want to try a osage sapling bow ;D

Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: gstoneberg on January 13, 2012, 10:20:48 pm
Josh,

If we find any vertical straight branches in the osage we cut in a few weeks I'll send you one. ;D

George
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Elktracker on January 13, 2012, 10:31:16 pm
Hey thanks I would appretiate that allot! send me a PM if you find anything around 1 1/2" to 2" and half way straight ::) and around 62 to 66" long ;D  and I will see if I have any wood you are interested in for a trade. I have some Oceanspray I think you may like! Thanks again

Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Bevan R. on January 13, 2012, 10:35:25 pm
vertical straight branches in the osage

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Thanks George, I needed a good laugh
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: gstoneberg on January 13, 2012, 10:59:15 pm
Yea, Josh didn't catch the humor in that. :)   But, I've seen straight suckers out the top of horizontal branches before so there's hope.  I'll for sure grab some if I see them.  I'll also go to a much closer spot I've cut trees out of for a couple years and see if any suckers that are large enough came up from the stumps.  Lastly, I saw an add in Craig's List this week for osage fence posts.  >6" diameter corner posts = $6ea.  < 6" posts = $3.  <3" spreader posts = $2.  Some of those little spreaders were real straight.  I might go get some of them.  I like the idea of somebody else doing the cutting. 8)

All that to say I'm gonna take care of Josh. ;)  My only question Josh is whether you're talking about full diameter of the pole or diameter of the heartwood?  I've seen 2" osage posts down here with little or no heartwood.

George
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Elktracker on January 13, 2012, 11:06:50 pm
O YA make fun of the guy from oregon who dont know any better! I aint never even seen osage in it natural environment :P I would say one like the one pat has here looks good but I have seen a couple that John Strunk has built that were 1 1/2 through to 2" through and they had a good enough amount of heart wood to work and they shot absolutely awsome in fact he hunted with one for elk last year. If not no big deal but I thought you were serious thats why I replyed to you offer didnt know it was a joke :) thanks though

Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: gstoneberg on January 13, 2012, 11:15:26 pm
It was  only the straight part that was a joke my friend.  I was and am serious.  Can't guarantee anything though as you just never know until you get your hands on the wood.  Given that I have more than one chance it's possible.  Ocean spray sounds fun to try too. ;D

George
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Bevan R. on January 13, 2012, 11:18:59 pm
Pat,
On that knot. you going to wrap it or anything besides the supper glue? Even if it is not in a bending area, won't it be stressed enough to pop out?
I agree with what was posted. That knot would scare the water out of me. I am really enjoying watching how you handle it.

Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Elktracker on January 13, 2012, 11:24:35 pm
Talking about the knots On the sapling bow Mr Strunk built recently it started to develope a crack just across the knot and he used a rawhide patch with super glue and a wrap over that. He uses this allot with knots when they look iffy or start to crack.


Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 14, 2012, 01:04:34 am
Wrong bow Bevan. The bow with the knot is the yew paddle bow...and I will do more than just the super glue.
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: gstoneberg on January 14, 2012, 01:13:18 am
LOL, he was trying to change the subject to get me out of trouble.  Not sure it worked or not.  I'll quit hijacking. :-[

George
Title: Re: Pole Bow
Post by: Pat B on January 14, 2012, 03:49:09 pm
The tip with the knot along the side and the dog leg also has some reflex in it that makes it difficult to tiller. I decided to add reflex to both limbs. This is more reflex than the one tip had but at least now they are similar. Shood make for a sweet shooting bow.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole001a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole002a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole003a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole005a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole004a.jpg)



Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 14, 2012, 05:24:31 pm
...and now off the form. Looks pretty good. I will have to do a little alignment but not too much. I won't know for sure until first brace though.  Here she is now...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole001-1.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole002-1.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole003-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 14, 2012, 07:35:39 pm
After she cooled a bit I wanted to see how the tiller is so far. I'm quite pleased with it!  ;D  This is about 8" of tip movement.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2inchosagepole002b.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Keenan on January 14, 2012, 07:56:25 pm
Pat that is looking great. Your going to mess around and force me to get off my duff and get working on the other half of that one. Looks so much like a twin that I am getting visions of this stave bending.  ::)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Elktracker on January 15, 2012, 12:48:59 am
Thats looking really nice Pat I love the heart wood on sap wood look it really looks good! Looks like its bending nice!


Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: toomanyknots on January 15, 2012, 03:44:45 am
Beautiful.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: gstoneberg on January 15, 2012, 05:25:25 am
I just love those lines and that bend.  That's looking like it'll be a great bow.

George
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: criveraville on January 16, 2012, 03:31:59 am
She's looking good Pat.

Cipriano
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: cracker on January 16, 2012, 10:20:58 am
Coming along quite nicely Pat. Hurry up and post some more pics I can hardly wait. Ron
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 17, 2012, 05:28:34 pm
I finally got her to low brace. She lines up pretty good. Might do a bit of alignment.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole003.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole002-1.jpg)


  And have taken her out to 23"(@50#)
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole004-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: TurtleCreek on January 17, 2012, 07:21:24 pm
Beautiful bow you have going.  I really like the lines of the side-view profile.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Ifrit617 on January 17, 2012, 10:04:31 pm
Looking good pat... What kind of stats are you trying to get from this bow?
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: gmc on January 18, 2012, 12:28:47 am
That looks perfect.

Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 18, 2012, 12:33:11 am
Ifrit, about 50#@28. That won't be a problem. I think I could make a 65# to70# bow from this stave.  ;D
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: druid on January 18, 2012, 02:47:32 am
Good work man, just go on!
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 20, 2012, 12:38:06 am
I decided to add a rawhide backing just for insurance. This is a trade bow so I don't want my recipient to get a surprise.  ;D  I used TBII and deer rawhide. Once this cures out I will finish the tillering. I'll probably add snake skins for decoration but that will be later.
  Here she is looking down her length...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/rawhidebacking001a.jpg)

...and a special treatment around the knot on the edge of one limb. I used the rubber band wrap to insure good adhesion around the knot...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/rawhidebacking004a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/rawhidebacking003a.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: D. Tiller on January 20, 2012, 01:08:16 am
Wow! Nice Pat. I will have to try one like that some day. Looks like a nice way to make bows and use the minimum wood from a tree.

Tiller
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: toomanyknots on January 20, 2012, 02:08:34 am
Looking nice. I can't wait to see this guy tillered out. I think bows from smaller diameter trees are my favorite bows. The profile on that bow is perfect.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: George Tsoukalas on January 20, 2012, 10:37:15 am
Pat, that is looking really good so far. I missed the start of this thread. Just got back back from vacation. Jawge
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 20, 2012, 05:22:58 pm
This morning the rawhide was good and hard again. The wood stove did its work.  :)  I rasped the excess rawhide from the sides and belly and sanded the belly smooth...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser001.jpg)

  After I got the belly cleaned up I decided to add a shoe leather handle riser. Being that this bow will bend in the handle I use the leather because it will flex with the bow. I may add another layer later after I shape the handle.  Here is how I add the leather handle.

 I first trace and cut out the shape...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser002.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser003.jpg)

  I then taper both ends where it fades into the limb on my belt sander. It is a lot easier to do this before it is glued down...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser004.jpg)

Now it is time to add the glue to the leather and the bow. Note the void where the center pith was. The handle will cover this area. First I soak the leather in warm water to make it more pliable. I blot off the excess water and put the glue on it. I decided to use TBIII because of it's water proof qualities. When finally shaped I will saturate the leather with super glue.

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser007.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser008.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 20, 2012, 05:25:49 pm
Now I wrap the handle with cloth strips and rubber bands and set it near my wood stove to dry.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser010.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser009.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/47inchyewmodocKeenan012.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Elktracker on January 20, 2012, 05:38:55 pm
Thats coming allong great Pat! This is gonna be a sweet bow!


Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 20, 2012, 08:16:26 pm
I got the handle shaped and decided to add a small leather lam to help fill out the handle. I just glued it up so I'll have more pics tomorrow.
 (http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole002c.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole004c.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole003c.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on January 21, 2012, 10:53:44 am
Man your shop is a pig pen Pat! I LOVE IT! I have come to the realization I cant keep my shop clean if I keep building bows in it, just cant happen. I dont have the luxury of a wood stove to eat my scraps, they all get hauled out in buckets.

That bow is coming aong very nicely, and easily by the looks of it. She has been nice to you so far. I cant wait to see the side of the house full draw pics pal! Ive come to love the side of your house.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 21, 2012, 11:31:13 am
Thanks Perlie. My shop is a pig pen but that helps keep it my sanctuary!   ;)
  I'm quite pleased how this bow is coming out. I keep thinking..."I wish it was mine!"  ;D I'll get the handle shaped today and try to get it bending closer to full draw so I can present it in front of the east wall of our house for you. That is the only place with a enough bare wall to get decent pics.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: toomanyknots on January 21, 2012, 01:51:23 pm
  I'm quite pleased how this bow is coming out. I keep thinking..."I wish it was mine!"  ;D

I've only made like 5 bows for people, and this has happened ever single time. Until I make myself 100 bows to hang on my bow racks and admire (read "worship") I vow not to make anyone else a bow. To add to that, I also wish that bow your making was mine!  :laugh: I love how you do those leather handles. I want to try that so bad, does it make it more comfortable to shoot?
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 21, 2012, 03:39:25 pm
TMK, I generally use a piece of leather to fill out the back of the bulbous handles I usually made. It does make them more comfortable by fitting in the hand better...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/TGtradebow2011overlays003.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/TGtradebowoverlays005.jpg)

 This bow pole bow has a high crowned back and a flat belly so I built up the handle on the belly so it will be more comfortable to shoot.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 21, 2012, 04:47:37 pm
In added another piece of leather to this riser and got it shaped. I primarily use my belt sander for the shaping but also use a rasp. After getting it to shape I saturated the leather with super glue. I'll let it cure out for a few hours before continueing...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser001a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser002a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser003a.jpg)

here it is saturated with the glue...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser005a.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/leatherhandleriser004a.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 21, 2012, 07:20:28 pm
I finally got her to first brace. I am very pleased with the outcome so far. She looks pretty even and the string tracks well. I won't need to make any more heat adjustments. She is going to be a real shooter too. She's drawing 50#@22" now and I'm shooting for 50#@28". I think it is doable. ;D
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole001d.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole003d.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Little John on January 21, 2012, 10:58:00 pm
Very intresting bow Pat, I am real intrested in seeing it done. You really do nice work.  Is it still holding a lot of reflex? Hope it does not start to bend too much in the handle. Good luck and again anxious to see her done.      Kenneth
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Keenan on January 21, 2012, 11:25:43 pm
That is looking great Pat. Very nice buildalong as well. You are cruising through those two projects really well.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 22, 2012, 01:19:55 am
Hey Kenneth. She is still holding almost all the reflex I added. I had her braced for about 2 hours today(low brace) and when I unbraced her she came right back where she was. I didn't actually measure it but plenty good enough. I can't wait to shoot her, maybe tomorrow. I can feel her flex in the handle now.
  Thanks Keenan. I've picked up a few others too. Some I'd started before but never finished. Waiting for wood to cool or glue to dry is a good time to pick up one of those unfinished projects.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: ErictheViking on January 22, 2012, 01:43:52 pm
great looking bow so far Pat. glad you included the leather build up work.  love the braced profile shot btw.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Will H on January 22, 2012, 07:42:58 pm
That bow is turning out super great! Thanks for sharing your progress! I just love threads like this! :) well done sir!
~Will
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Sidewinder on January 22, 2012, 11:53:22 pm
Very cool project Pat. I don't know how many of those saplings I've turned into walking sticks for people. Guess your showing us how its done. That handle set up is pretty cool too. Amazing what leather and superglue can be shaped into to. Somebodies gonna be happy.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: blackhawk on January 23, 2012, 08:53:05 am
I just have one question....what did folks do before the invention of superglue?...I don't know if I could make a bow without the stuff...I think there's a dab of the stuff on almost everyone of my bows..lol :laugh:
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 23, 2012, 11:25:08 am
I agree. Super glue is the miracle drug of wood bow making.  I keep it handy all the time and annoint every(almost) bow I build.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: bowtarist on January 23, 2012, 12:40:34 pm
Didn't have time to read the full post, but that's a sweet bow Pat!  I like that leather handle too.  That's a great idea.  TG partner should be thrilled!!  dpgratz
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Bevan R. on January 23, 2012, 01:16:23 pm
I agree. Super glue is the miracle drug of wood bow making.  I keep it handy all the time and annoint every(almost) bow I build.

do you purchase it in bulk? all I have ever seen is the little tubes. I assume you use the 'liquid' stuff, not the 'gel'.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 23, 2012, 01:36:29 pm
Thanks Derik.
 Bevan, I buy it is small bottles at Walmart. Locktite brand. You can see the blue bottle(s) in a few of the pics. I also buy the purple bottles with the little brush in it. You can see in a pic that I'm using the cap/brush from one bottle in the other bottle when I did the handle for easier application.
  I did have someone offer me a quart(or liter) of super glue but that never came through. I'm sure not much would go to waste.
  I have her pulling 50#@26" now. Only a few inches to go before the tillering is done. The tip allignment worked like a champ and I narrowed the tips a bit more. If it weren't raining I'd go out and begin the shoot-in. She's at full brace now and I'll let her stay braced for a few more hours. So far she's still holding a lot of her original reflex. I'm curious to see how she does after being braced for a few hours.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 23, 2012, 04:41:27 pm
I have a few more pics since the last pics I posted here. I  shaped the tips and added leather tip overlays in a similar process as the handle riser. Here is one with a leather tip overlay added...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole001-2.jpg)

...with super glue added and shaped...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole004-2.jpg)
 
After I got her to normal brace height I let her "sweat" for about 2 hours then went out and shot about 15 arrows just to see how she'd shoot. She shoots well but with a little thump at my normal 26" draw. When I stretched out the thump was less.
  Here she is at regular brace height...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole001e.jpg)

...and unbraced just after sweating and shooting...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole004e.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2inchosagepole003e.jpg)

...not too shabby for a 2" osage pole.  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on January 23, 2012, 04:46:31 pm
Quit being so hard on yourself Pat. I have never heard anybody call you a 2" osage pole, I would knock em' if I did pal.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Dazv on January 23, 2012, 04:46:45 pm
man i need to see more of this bow
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Bevan R. on January 23, 2012, 04:49:04 pm
Very sweet looking 'meat maker' Pat. I have been watching this build and taking notes for future projects. Thanks!!
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Elktracker on January 23, 2012, 04:49:51 pm
Very nice Pat I like the leather tip over lays I may have to try that, is it just thin saddle leather?  Looking great love the braced and unbraced profile!

Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 23, 2012, 05:20:48 pm
And I'm Irish, Pearlie!  ::)
Thanks DAZV and Bevan.
  Josh, the leather is oak (vegatable) tanned shoe leather, about 1/4" thick. You can do the same with thinner leather just add two pieces. Veg tanned works best for me.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Elktracker on January 23, 2012, 05:23:47 pm
K thanks pat


Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on January 26, 2012, 01:21:30 pm
TTT
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 26, 2012, 01:25:11 pm
I'm hoping to do a little more on this bow today. I want to reduce the tips a bit to try to reduce the little hand shock it has. Then I have to get my wife's help to do the cave drawings.  ::)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on January 26, 2012, 02:14:20 pm
Pat I brought it back up for the person asking what to do with a 2 1/2" sapling. 
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 26, 2012, 02:29:21 pm
This is definately one option.  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: toomanyknots on January 26, 2012, 03:17:38 pm
That bow looks great. I've never seen leather tip overlays before, very cool. They look like they polished up really nice.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: druid on January 26, 2012, 03:22:38 pm
Good work man!  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: George Tsoukalas on January 26, 2012, 03:41:38 pm
She sure is pretty! Nice job. Jawge
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 26, 2012, 05:32:01 pm
Thanks guys. I reshaped the tips to reduce some of their physical weight...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2ginchosagepole004.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2einchosagepole005.jpg)

...and have her tillered out to 28" and just over the desired draw weight. Here is the last pic I took of her just a few minutes ago...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/2012TGBowTrade2finchosagepole003.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Elktracker on January 26, 2012, 05:55:42 pm
That looks great pat!

Josh
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Bevan R. on January 26, 2012, 07:27:37 pm
Is one of the drawings going to have a long bushy beard? :laugh:
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 26, 2012, 07:37:41 pm
I leave that up to the artist...my wife.  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 26, 2012, 07:40:32 pm
This is the last one she did...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/Tradgangtradebow001-1.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/Tradgangtradebow002-1.jpg)

(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/Tradgangtradebow003-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: gmc on January 26, 2012, 07:45:01 pm
That is sweet.

The brace and artwork looks great.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: BakhSA on January 27, 2012, 04:04:03 am
Great bow, Pat. Thank you very much for the lesson, Sir!
Bakh
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pappy on January 27, 2012, 09:31:19 am
Looks great Pat,beautiful work. All of it. :) Thanks for letting us tag along. :)
  Pappy
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: osage outlaw on January 27, 2012, 10:16:54 am
Pat, I really like the artwork your wife adds to the bow.  That's cool that she helps you like that.  If I let my wife do that, she would probably use pink sparkly fingernail paint  :(
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: EricWard on January 27, 2012, 11:22:39 pm
Wow Pat thats a heck of a bow hope its not gone before i see you i would love to shoot it
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 28, 2012, 12:22:19 am
Hey Eric. Good to see you here. Unfortunately this is a trade bow  so it will be going in the mail shortly after its done.   Send me your address in a PM. I have something for you.  ;)
  Thanks guys. The artwork I posted is on Elkie. Not sure exactly is going on this bow but is should be similar to this.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Keenan on January 28, 2012, 01:05:39 am
 Great looking tiller Pat and Lulyn loved the art work. That is going to be one sweet bow. Well done
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Gus on January 28, 2012, 02:04:45 am
Yes Sir!

Thank You for the Build Along!
I bet the recipient will be ecstatic!

Pardon Sir, do you mind me asking what medium your wife uses for her Bow Art?

Thank You,

-gus
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 28, 2012, 02:09:50 am
Gus, Marcia drew out the figures in pencil and I traced those drawings with India ink. The red is accrylic paint.  Rawhide is a great canvas for many mediums and artistic styles.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Gus on January 28, 2012, 02:28:11 am
Thank You Sir!

I really like the looks of it.

Do you lay down your ink right on the cured rawhide?
Or do you need to seal it first?

I've had mixed results with India Ink on wood and with some finishes.

Regards,

-gus
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on January 28, 2012, 02:36:28 am
The finish(Tru-Oil) was added on top of the drawings. India ink is the most permanent ink I've found to write on bows. Having an appropriate surface for the ink is important. Bare wood usually causes the ink to run or bleed. I usually spray satin poly over where I want to write and let that cure out good, then write with the india ink. Lert the ink dry completely and add a thin coat or two of Tru Oil over the writing. When that dries I give it a quick spray of the satin poly to cut the shine.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Gus on January 28, 2012, 02:44:24 am
Excellent, Thank You Sir!

I figured I was being too impatient, not letting one or the other dry enough before moving to the next step...  :o

Looking forward to giving it another go.

-gus
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Little John on January 29, 2012, 12:16:28 am
Great build along Pat and really nice bow you have there. That art work is beautiful and looks very familar, can't wait to see what you come up with for this bow I just know it is going to be way cool.                                          Kenneth
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on February 11, 2012, 07:53:24 pm
Well, she's all done. She tillered out nicely and is right where I wanted the weight to be. I have put over a hundred arrows through her. She shoots right where I'm looking with a little thump when shot but not uncomfortable at all. Here are a few pics. I'll post full draw pics soon.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/TGtradebowdone2012001.jpg)

This unbraced pic is just after shooting 50 arrows and being strung for about an hour.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/TGtradebowdonec2012004.jpg)

...and the pictograph artwork on the rawhide backing.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/TGtradebowdoneb2012002.jpg)

Here are her stats...
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/almostdone.jpg)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Ifrit617 on February 11, 2012, 08:04:21 pm
Turned out awesome Pat! Now all you need to do is take my Osage pole and tiller it out as nice as that...  >:D >:D >:D >:D

Jon
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on February 11, 2012, 08:08:09 pm
You can do it, Jon.   Thanks for the nicecomment.
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Gus on February 12, 2012, 01:42:44 am
Yes Sir!

That's a Fine looking piece of Bodark!
It'll be a Lucky Individual that gets to call this bow their own. :)

Thank You for sharing your Build Along.

-gus
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Pat B on February 12, 2012, 01:44:26 am
Thanks Gus. It won't be the last osage pole bow I build!  ;)
Title: Re: Pole Bow (winter project #1)
Post by: Elktracker on February 12, 2012, 01:57:05 am
That turned out awsome Pat! Nice work as always!

Josh