All I've shot in the past are fiberglass bows. I like em alright but I've been feeling the pull towards a more primitive style. I self-nock my arras, collect wild rose and osier for shafts and tie my feathers on. It just doesnt seem right to shoot such arrows out of a glas bow. I think Im ready for a all wood bow...
My question for you-
Should I spend some cash and take a class from an established bowyer OR use those funds to buy a few boards/staves and tools and teach myself?
I have very limited space, limited wood working skills and few tools.
Thanks guys!
Books:
Chasing the Osage Bow / Dean Torges
The Bent Stick / Jim ??? I can't remember right now. Somebody will fill in the blank.
For really indepth knowledge, though, pick up
The Traditional Bowers Bibles, especially 1 & 2 for what you are thinking of doing. I recommend all 4 books but 1&2 will get you started and on your way.
If you see any bow making jambories around your parts then, by all means, go and learn from those events, too.
Heck yeah, take a class if ya can, why do it the hard way. With limited skills you will go through a lot of firewood. John Strunk and Ted Fry are in your area, I'd look em up.