Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Burnsie on January 01, 2026, 02:27:28 pm
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Has anyone ever built an Osage self bow to the approximate dimensions of a Hill style longbow. ie: narrow straight handle, 66-68", about 1" at fades down to slender tips , deep core....etc. Basically a Hill longbow in self bow form.
I was thinking about trying one, but didn't want to go down a dead end road.
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JD Jones used to make them and they shot very well.
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No reason it wouldn't work especially with osage.
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1" wide sounds a little narrow for osage with a stiff handle, and dips. Unless you have an exceptionally dense stave, 1" is probably going to result in a lot of string follow. I would go at least 1&1/4" wide, and 2" of heated in reflex.(1 &3/8" would be even better).
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I built a lot of those in my early days. Mostly about 1 1/4 wide but often slightly less. If you get them working deep into the fades they don't take much set and are great shooters. They weigh about 16 oz when done.