Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: yellow feather on May 16, 2008, 05:57:53 pm

Title: Backing red elm
Post by: yellow feather on May 16, 2008, 05:57:53 pm: Which of the two combinations for a backed bow would make the best 66 in. r/d longbow, red elm backed with bambo or red elm backed with hickory.
Thanks in advance
David
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: Pat B on May 16, 2008, 06:07:21 pm: Either combo could be an excellent bow depending on the woods(and boo) and your skill level. I would probably go for the elm/hickory combo. Less work involved and less stress on the belly with the hickory. I assume you have elm lumber. If its a stave, why bother backing it. Elm makes a pretty good self bow. Pat
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: recurve shooter on May 16, 2008, 06:51:15 pm: i got no idea but i love anything made out of hickory so throw the hick in there. :P
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: El Destructo on May 16, 2008, 07:05:48 pm: ????????? Never had to back a Piece of Elm before....just peel and eat!!
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: Ryano on May 16, 2008, 07:19:11 pm: Elm is actually very good in tension. It can actually be used as a backing. Its not exceptional as a compression wood although it does OK if heat treated. Theres better choices for a belly slat.
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: adb on May 16, 2008, 07:31:47 pm: If it's a board, I'd go elm/hickory.
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: radius on May 16, 2008, 09:06:21 pm: hickory is definitely easier to work...

bamboo creates an extremely powerful bow...

i would do one of each!
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: yellow feather on May 17, 2008, 01:02:08 pm: Thanks for the replies. Yes it's a board. David
Title: Re: Backing red elm
Post by: El Destructo on May 17, 2008, 02:40:57 pm: Back it with Hickory then....no doubt....I think that the Bamboo....unless thinned to next to nothing would overpower the Elm Board....JMO