Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: ricktrojanowski on March 26, 2008, 11:58:29 pm
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I have some left over Ipe decking from a job. It's 1x6 (actual 3/4"thickness). Is this thick enough for a bow? Also what should I look for as far as a suitable piece for a bow? Lastly how wide should I rip it?
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Ipe likes a narrow, deepish cross section. One inch wide will do the trick. It really depends on the style and length of bow you want to build. I made a hickory backed ipe flatbow a few years ago(my first try with ipe). I think it was 64" long, 55#@26", 1 3/4 wide at the fades and the 1/8" hickory backing was thicker than the ipe belly. The bow shot well. Another try was 1" wide x 66" long, hickory backed ipe with a straight taper to 3/8" tips.I never got to weigh this one because of a severe fret just above the handle. I was trying to get it to bend right at the handle and strained it too much, I guess...anyway it would have been a real screamer. ;D
Like osage, it doesn't take much ipe to make a hunting weight bow. Pat
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Plenty of wood for at least 4-5 bows. For lateral stability it is nice to have 1 1/8" wide, but I would go no wider. I made a 65# bow from a 69" 3/4"X3/4" board. http://www.primitivearcher.com/smf/index.php/topic,5313.0.html
It is amazingly strong in compression so you can back it with a little thicker backing than usual. Justin
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Thanks for the info guys.
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Don't listen to them rick ipe is horrible so I will be nice and take it offin yer hands ok ;)
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Super Yooper I like the name change Dana. I wasn't gonna make a Ipe bow myself. I hate working with the stuff when I have to, let alone for fun. ;D. But I'm gonna bring some rippings to Tn. I'll be glad to hook you up with some.
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8) 8) 8) Can't buy it up here heck the lumber places think yer talking russian if ya ask :o