Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => English Warbow => Topic started by: Viking on May 31, 2018, 09:01:39 pm

Title: Horn Nocks
Post by: Viking on May 31, 2018, 09:01:39 pm

I am working on my first war bow, and I am having trouble locating horn for the nocks.
I have heard that buffalo is good.
What kind of horn do you use, and where do you get it?
As I am located in the U.S., I would like to find a supplier that is here.

Thanks!

Title: Re: Horn Nocks
Post by: Del the cat on June 01, 2018, 03:41:29 am

Water buffalo is good... don't know any US supplier as I'm in UK
Del

Title: Re: Horn Nocks
Post by: DC on June 01, 2018, 09:24:13 am

You can get Water Buffalo horn at pet stores. In the dog chew section.

Title: Re: Horn Nocks
Post by: Pat B on June 02, 2018, 07:50:47 am

Cow horn and deer antler work. James Parker, Huntworthyproductions(a sponsor) probably has some buff horn.

Title: Re: Horn Nocks
Post by: WillS on June 04, 2018, 01:50:22 pm

Cow horn is the "proper" stuff, if you're interested in making traditional English warbows.  Buffalo horn is ok, but it has a different structure to cow horn, which means that if you're making sidenocks (as you should be ;) ) it can have a tendency to split at the heavier weights.  Draw weights of about 120lb or below and it doesn't make much difference other than for authenticity.

Remember that cow horn is a waste product of all sorts of processes, from farming to abattoirs so if you ask around you'll probably come across a good source somewhere.  Failing that, eBay always has cow horn tips. 

Once you find a good source of cow horn you won't bother with buffalo again, that's for sure!