Hello all,
Due to health issues, I am no longer able to work with fiberglass. I am looking to still build a one piece r/d longbow with three tapered limb cores, and replace the fiberglass with bamboo on the back and belly. From the info I've gathered so far, I'm planning to temper the bamboo for the belly and leave the back pieces untouched as much as possible. I need some advice as to what thickness to grind it, taper to tips or not, etc. Any and all suggestions, pointers, opinions will be much appreciated.
Thanks everyone,
Dave
Dave. I would taper the bamboo from 1/8" to 1/16" at the tips. I have built two of the same type you are describing and it works for me. I believe most guys taper there bamboo about the same.
I'm assuming the thickness is measured at points in between the nodes?
Thanks,
Dave
Lots of good options for belly other than bamboo also. My understanding is that getting the tapers perfect on bows with bamboo belly is critical ... less critical if the belly can be tillered if you use osage or ipe. They are also stronger in compression than bamboo.
Thanks for the advice about the ipe and Osage. If my plan with the belly boo doesn't work out, that will definitely be my next option. I'm hoping that if I temper the belly pieces it will raise the compression strength enough?
Thanks again,
Dave
Dave. I do measure the boo at points in between the nodes, but I don't have any exact measurements. I just try to get a gradual taper down to 1/16". I'm assuming you already know this, but you have to measure in the middle of the boo and of course you can't measure at the nodes because they are thicker there. Also the boo has to be perfectly flat. I mention these things, because I have learned by my mistakes. I agree with Ben in that there other woods you could use that might make the job easier, but for me I just wanted to see if I could make a laminated bow with a bamboo belly. There are lots of guys with more experience and knowledge than I have, but I'm learning.
Thanks for the info. This is my first time working with bamboo other than for limb cores, so any advice is welcomed. I realize that there will be easier materials to work with, but I just love the look and the fast action of the bamboo. I guess I'm just a glutton for punishment :D I've been working long hours lately, so I haven't had much time to spend in the shop. Hopefully I'll be able to get started grinding in the next couple weeks.
Thanks,
Dave