Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Calios on April 08, 2022, 09:52:52 am

Title: Any thoughts on rattan?
Post by: Calios on April 08, 2022, 09:52:52 am
I have been thinking about trying to use rattan to make a bow as I could have a chance to get it... what do you think? Is it a good bow material? Easy or difficult to work with?
Title: Re: Any thoughts on rattan?
Post by: Parnell on April 08, 2022, 10:02:10 am
I've seen guys make bows from it on here, over the years.  My understanding is that its very easy to work, bend and make a bow from.  I think it maxes out with bows in the 40# range, though.  Never used it, myself.
Title: Re: Any thoughts on rattan?
Post by: Pat B on April 08, 2022, 10:20:59 am
I agree with Steve. A few years ago there were quite a few folks making bows with rattan but mostly kids bows. I think it was at MoJam a while back that lots of these bows were made. There should be lots of info on YouTube. I made one rattan bow but it took lots of set and wasn't very strong. I think that was mostly me because I've seen some nice rattan bows.
Title: Re: Any thoughts on rattan?
Post by: JW_Halverson on April 09, 2022, 03:04:17 pm
I've seen guys make bows from it on here, over the years.  My understanding is that its very easy to work, bend and make a bow from.  I think it maxes out with bows in the 40# range, though.  Never used it, myself.

Mike Stocklin in Faith, SD has built sinew backed rattan bows that draw in excess of 70 lbs.
Title: Re: Any thoughts on rattan?
Post by: Eric Krewson on April 11, 2022, 08:41:20 am
If I remember right at Mojam they tillered the backs  of the rattan bows instead of the belly.