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increasing bow speed

Started by aklongbow, November 19, 2009, 11:54:00 PM

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aklongbow

Built a 66" American Long Bow out of Yew, problem is I developed a 2 1/2" set, question can I use dry heat and reflex the ends to increase the speed?  I can leave the bow alone but I figure I may as learn in my growth as a bow maker

Apex Predator

Built another.  I don't think you can "un-damage" wood fibers.
I didn't claw my way to the top of the food chain to eat vegetables!

Tom Leemans

Don't do that. Apex is right.
Got wood? - Tom

Don Stokes

Technical terms are Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) and Modulus of Rupture (MOR).

In oversimplified terms, MOE is the point to which the wood can bend and recover fully. MOR is the point where it won't recover fully, where some of the fibers have ruptured. When a bow takes a set, the MOR of some fibers has been exceeded, and there's nothing you can do about it. Both are affected by moisture content, so more moisture means less strength for both. Set represents a permanent loss of strength and form. Mess with it and you'll make it worse.
Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.- Ben Franklin

Jeremy

You could recurve the ends, but then you'll just stress the wood more causing more set in the working limbs (see Don's explanation) and it'll all be a wash.

If you started with a straight stave and the bow stays at 2.5" of set, that ain't too bad.  Anything under 2" is generally considered real good and when you're just starting out... my first bow had 4".  Learned alot about properly tillering and exercising bows with the first couple.  :)
>>>-TGMM Family Of The Bow-->
CT CE/FS Chief Instructor
"Death is not the greatest loss in life.  The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live." - Norman Cousins

aklongbow

OK I get it, build another.  Thanks for the input.

Roy Steele

What ever set your bow has in it,it's there.You can't take it out.
DEAD IS DEAD NO MATTER HOW FAST YOUR ARROW GETS THERE
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 CROOKETARROW

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