Backing for a pyramid board bow.

Started by fireball31, December 15, 2009, 10:59:00 PM

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fireball31

Does anybody back a pyramid style board bow such as the one in the buildalong thread.  If you do, what do you use (i.e. Linen, rawhide, sinew,) Thanks.

4est trekker

I just posted a bow identical to the one in the build-along (except for the handle design and limb width) that I backed with brown paper.  I like to use brown paper because it's light, but when saturated with glue creates a tight, strong, wood-fiber veneer.  Low mass is important when the limbs are that wide (in this case 2 1/4").  VERY easy to obtain and apply.
"Walk softly...and carry a bent stick."

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through him."  Col. 3:17

Pat B

I built a hickory backed red oak pyramid bow a few years ago. MysticGuido(Sal) has it now. It is a good hard shooting bow.
Make the most of all that comes and the least of all that goes!
TGMM Family of the Bow

Bow-cephus

Ok, so I'm very curious now, I understand the impotance of grain straightness in a board for a good bow; But does the backing (i.e. Hickory) need to be straight grained as well? Also how would Black Walnut do for a board bow backing?
Mathew 17:20-21

Pat B

Backing grain should be as straight as possible. I have made hickory backed bows with bad back violations that worked fine but don't recommend it as a general practice. I like experimenting with such things.
 Black walnut is not a good candidate as a backing strip. It will make a pretty good belly though if backed with hickory or better yet maple or elm backing.
Make the most of all that comes and the least of all that goes!
TGMM Family of the Bow

fireball31

Thanks guys.  I found your post 4est trekker, I think I'm gonna give it a try.  I might even mess around with some art work on the paper.

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