Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Matt A on April 22, 2012, 03:33:28 pm

Title: american elm ?
Post by: Matt A on April 22, 2012, 03:33:28 pm

i have a 58 inch stave of american elm and a few way longer ones. could i make a shorty out of this 58 incher and if so would i have to put sinew on the back if i drew to say 26 inches?

Title: Re: american elm ?
Post by: Bevan R. on April 22, 2012, 03:41:58 pm

Post some photo's of the stave please. Sometimes numbers just do not tell the whole story.
Depending on the style, profile, you might pull if off. If it was me, I would back it with something. Sinew, rawhide, linen, something like that. Sinew adds draw weight, the others just protection.

Title: Re: american elm ?
Post by: half eye on April 22, 2012, 03:47:50 pm

Matt, just finished a 58" rigid handled modified pyramid that is a grey (American) elm and draws 28" and about 50#....it's a self bow, only difference is mine is vertical grain but the wood should take the gaff ok.
JMHO, rich
post ya a photo if ya want

Title: Re: american elm ?
Post by: blackhawk on April 22, 2012, 08:12:11 pm

no problems making it draw that far as a selfbow if you make it bend thru the handle. if your still new to bowmaking then i wood go that route and make it a bend thru the handle selfbow imho

Title: Re: american elm ?
Post by: Matt A on April 23, 2012, 03:19:48 am

ok thanks guys, i figured i would try this shorty before i tried a 51 inch osage stave i have hahaha!   :laugh: