I am new to bow building and I am interested in all wood bows. I've built about 25 bows with varying results. I read all the volumes of the TBB and slowed down on the process in hopes of getting a better result. One design that intrigues me is the Nootka design. Curved back, ribbed belly. I've built 2 experiments so far both of red oak. The first one was lightning fast for 25 shots! Crack. The second one is longer and wider out of an oak board. 74", 3 1/2" wide, and drew 83 pounds at 28". I tillered down to 55# to save my shoulder. Has anyone else built something similar?
I haven't built any, but I sure would love to see some pictures of the ones you built!
I used to do alot of experimentation. I now build only fiberglass/wood laminated hybrid and osage selfbows (Torges style with a tweak or two) These are two are the most durable and funstional bows IMHO. When you go for speed, or use any wood other than osage for a selfbow dissapointment will eventually find you.
Where do you live in VA?
I know exactly where Elkton is...up by Charlottesville I do believe. I live in Roanoke. I would love to load a picture if I could figure out how.
I've had good sucess with hornbeam but it needs a thicker fade than 5/8" I've found.
I make quite a few longbows that are Hickory Backed Red Oak. I call it Faux Yew since it has the general color of the Yew bow with the light sapwood back over a darker belly. I believe that you need to back Red Oak with something since it is inherently a weaker wood and prone to breakage.
I find the classic 'D' shape with thinner tips performs better than flatbow styles.
As said above - Osage is no doubt the best bow wood, but it also depends on the style you are looking for and perhaps the color of the woods.
I still prefer the true Pacific Yew for the overall beauty of the long bow. It can have its quirks and make fall a bit short of Osage in performance, but if done right will make a shooter and a piece of art.