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Post by perry on Feb 16, 2006 2:16:36 GMT
This is a question for glenbow, or anybody who makes bows. I found a couple of very nice pieces of Hornbeam and split out some staves, just because I was curious. But I can't find much information on how well this wood might work in a bow. The growth rings are very tight on all sides, consistant but tight, I don't think there's a 1/16" between any one ring. And no sap wood other than the bark layer. Each piece is eight feet long with no limbs or knots. Nice and clear. Does Hornbeam need to be backed? If so, what's best, Hickory? Linen? Bamboo? Would it lend itself to some minor shaping, reflex/deflex? Or do we just throw the stuff away? Should I have waited a month or so to cut it so the sap could have been up and moving through it? Any help...thanks!
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Post by glenbow on Feb 18, 2006 23:50:33 GMT
Perry, Sorry I have been busy and not on for awhile.Yes I have made several self bows from hornbeam.The main thing with Hop Hornbeam is getting a straight stave,they have a tendency to twist as they grow. Hornbeam as with most white woods remove the bark and you have your back. I don't back hornbeam for longbows. I did build a recurve from it and that one I backed with sinew mostly to hold the recurve. I will sometimes rough cut out the green stave to the bow shape leaving enough to align limbs and of course for tillering.Take the roughed out bow induce a little reflex by clamping to a 2x4 back down with blocks under it,and put it in my heat box, check with moisture meter. Good luck and let me know how it goes. mysite.verizon.net/georgeandjoni/archer.html Here is a site that should be very helpful |
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Post by perry on Feb 20, 2006 2:08:45 GMT
Thanks for the knowledge, and the site!
I had heard that Hornbeam was a gnarly wood, but these two staves are about eight feet long and straight as an arrow. It'll be an adventure, I'll let you know hjow I make out with them. Thanks again.
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Post by glenbow on Feb 21, 2006 0:16:25 GMT
If this is your first selfbow a couple tips.Make it long (you can always shorten it) keep an eye on the moisture meter, tiller slowly(remove a little and check,remove a little and check)
Later Glen
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