when to rawhide back

[smoke]

Folks, I'd like to hear your thoughts as to when to back a bow with rawhide.  Do you do it when you make a narrow limbed bow?  To protect sinew? For bows only of a certain length?  Your wisdom is appreciated!  Thanks

[PEARL DRUMS]

I only do it when I'm not completely comfortable with the condition of the back. i.e. thin or violated rings. Maybe a bug hole/tunnel or a knot that isn't trustworthy.

[DC]

I have no solid reasons but I don't like backing bows(except boo). I guess I have more staves than rawhide and it's easier to start a new one.

[Pat B]

Like Pearlie I only back bows that need backing. I have added rawhide to one sinew backed bow only because I was copying one Jay Massey made. Adding rawhide to a sinew backed bow adds a little protection but it also adds extra physical weight which can detract from the bows performance. If you are concerned about protecting the sinew add snake or fish skins or just a thin coat of TBIII glue for waterproofing.
 If you live in a humid area adding the rawhide over the sinew can allow more moisture to enter the bow/sinew/rawhide matrix.

[PatM]

I like to use it on HHB bows that have a back that turned out unexpectedly gnarly.  If it has pronounced ridges or lumps from grown over sawfly exit holes I will just make the back a smooth curve like the general curve of the tree and rawhide back it.

 I'll also use it on top of sinew if I can get exceptionally thin stuff.

[George Tsoukalas]

What PD said except that I do back yew. Jawge

[smoke]

Thanks guys - as always you've been very helpful!  Much appreciated,