A while back I was given some misc lams and glass from a guys storage unit for free.  I finally decided to do something with them and build my nephew a longbow.  I had no clue on on the number of lams to use on this prototype bow to hit weight, so I winged it.  the glass was 2" so I ripped it down to 1 1/2" on the table saw.  I also had to rip the lams down.  That was easier said than done, as they were chipping and splitting even with a fine multi tooth blade.

I decided this bow would be done cheap.  Start up cost consist of one $10 2X2 of oak and about $12 in 2X8's for a easy form.

The bow glued up and in the form ready for heat.

out of the oven


limbs shaped on the sander after being laid out.


overlay sections sanded down and ready for glue


Glued on tips and overlay with lights used for heat

After overlays were done it was time to shape the riser and tips.  I used the table saw to cut out the window.  I made multiple passes and continually lowered the blade as it narrowed.  It then was easy to chisel out and sanded smooth in seconds.



I tried my best to get the nice looking rounded pointed tips like Marty does on his bows.

After lots of sanding and smoothing things out I applied some poly.  


The tips came out as my best to date.

Add another $11 for a string and $5 for a rest and the cost of one can of Poly (which I already had) and my total cost of the bow was around $38 plus a few more dollars for used up sand paper.

the weight came out a little heavy at 24 @ 18".  I will soon make another as I still have enough of the Oak left for another riser.

Thanks for looking.

Your nephew will love it nice work!

really nice work man.  i just got the components to make one just like it from bingham's. if mine comes out half that good, i'll be happy. your transition point between wood and fiberglass, especially on the front is gorgeous.

hey have you tried makin flemish twist strings yet?  i just learned how a week ago, it is super easy.  strings are dirt cheap, and it is really fun to do.

Excellent. Nice shaping of the riser.

That riser has a nice shape to it...how long is it?

Very nice indeed.  I bet you can't wait to see his face when you hand it to him.  Way better than money the look will be priceless.

Very nice!! your nephew will be very happy  

Nice work, He is going to love it    

Thanks for the comments everyone.  

Rick I have not yet started making my own strings.  I have a couple instructional videos, just haven't tried yet.

The riser has a total length of 16" from tip of fade to tip of fade.  The handle section is 5"

The second one went into the oven tonight with a little change in thickness.  I also lengthened the  riser to 18" to get a more gradual tapper to the fades.

You are all right.  I can't wait until Sunday to take the bow out to him and do some shooting.  I have one of those large picture targets of a deer I figure we can put on the end of a round bale.  He should have a blast.  This new bow will be for my buddies son.  Neither of them have a clue I'm making these.  Talk about a surprise.

Good job Clint!!  There will be a couple totally happy young fellers!!      

Your nephews a lucky guy. He's going to love it!!