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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: Jmack80 on June 09, 2013, 07:30:00 PM

Title: Wiping down/conditioning an osage self-bow
Post by: Jmack80 on June 09, 2013, 07:30:00 PM
Hi all.   A close friend of mine built me a nice osage long bow.   I've been storing it in the house to keep the humidity constant, but was wondering if you guys have any recommendations on what I should use for wiping it down/storing/conditioning.  

Someone suggested lard?

Any thoughts?
Title: Re: Wiping down/conditioning an osage self-bow
Post by: Pat B on June 09, 2013, 07:35:00 PM
Does it have a finish?  If so you can add car wax or do nothing but shoot it often.
Title: Re: Wiping down/conditioning an osage self-bow
Post by: Eric Krewson on June 10, 2013, 08:37:00 AM
If it doesn't have a finish on it you can use Tru-Oil, spar urethane(rattle can)or just about any wood finish to complete the bow.

If you want to go simple, melt paraffin into the wood until it won't hold anymore. Buff the finish with a rag when the wood won't absorb anymore paraffin. Paraffin makes a really nice looking finish.
Title: Re: Wiping down/conditioning an osage self-bow
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on June 10, 2013, 09:18:00 AM
I give all my bows a few coats of Gun Stck Wax each year, over the existing finish. Birchwood Casey makes it.
Title: Re: Wiping down/conditioning an osage self-bow
Post by: Jmack80 on June 18, 2013, 05:18:00 AM
Thanks!  I picked up some gun stock wax.