Before I could use the new string, I needed to build a tillering tree to check the limbs for even bending. I had a section of treated 2x4 up in the rafters of my garage for a few years so I knew it was good and dry. I drilled a series of 3/4" diameter holes at a 15 degree angle in the edge of the 2x4. The holes are 2 1/2 inches deep. In those holes, I glued short sections of 3/4 inch wooden dowels. I then sanded them to round off any sharp edges.



And marked off the distances along the side.



This is the bow holding end of the tree. I use a piece of leather to protect the riser when I clamp the bow in place.



I attached a plywood base so it would stand by itself.



With the string grooves filed and the tillering tree finished, I strung the bow for the first time. and drew it back. It was a good feeling. I then put it in the tree and drew the bow to a few different lengths to see if the limbs were flexing equally. Here are the pics.







I can see some differences in the flex of the limbs. I will sand away certain areas to make the limbs act the same.

Lessons learned. I could have left out every other wooden peg. I really don't need one at every inch.

Wow, Ron. I'm thoroughly impressed by your work.  This is a great build along and it is producing a GREAT looking bow.  

Your attention to detail is amazing.  

You've already given me lots of ideas (I'm hoping the bow clamp on my tillering tree looks just like yours later today....).  

Thanks for sharing, Howard

Extremely good job Ron!!

I sure hope someone archives this !

Ron,

Come up for air.  This is too good to let responsibilities get in the way.

Sorry but I had to help my Dad Bury his Brother over the weekend. I will get back to the project this week.

Holy cow, this looks like a professionally build bow.  Tips just blow me away

Sometimes, even attempts at humor result in a size 12 inserted fimly in mouth.  Sorry to hear about your uncle's death.  My condolences to the family.

That's an absolute beauty! Well done mate!  :D  

Pete, Don't sweat it. He lived a full 85 years and the nursing home was no place for a guy like Vic. He is in a better place so no sadness.

After a few days off to tend to some important issues, I got a chance to get back to the bow. I still needed to cut out the sight window and shape the grip. I drew the window onto the tape on both the back and belly of the bow. The window will be 1/8th inch less than center.



I used a hand saw and chisel to remove the wood.



And then sanded it to the lines.



I put a crown on the shelf.

To shape the grip I used a wood rasp and sanding blocks





It still is a bit thick and will need to be slimmed down a bit.







The end user is happy with the fit so far.

Looking real good mate! Good job! I'm looking forward to seeing it finished!      

Fantastic thread - thank you Ron!

Very nice so far!!!              

this is great, Thanks for posting it    
almost as good as being there  

You've radiused the shelf, but are also gonna put a radius on the riser arrow plate?

Yes, I did that last night. I also removed more of the material getting me closer to the center rather than being 1/8 of an inch less than center.

I have a stupid question.  I know a little about tillering a selfbow.  But how did you go about tillering a glass backed/bellied bow?  sand the glass or take off width?

fantastic build along thanks for taking the time to share your hard work with us, love the look of the tips!