Another attempt at a laminate longbow

March 03, 2018, 10:44:00 PM

I think you did an awesome job... Like how you shaped your grip and how your ramps got a little ying an yang going on...

Beazley hunter · March 03, 2018, 10:49:00 PM

Thanks Shredd! I'm pretty happy with how it's turning out. Can't wait to shoot it!

kennym · March 04, 2018, 12:30:00 PM

Now ya got a shelf, ya shot it yet? LOL

Sand the glass corners before you do, just in case a splinter might rear it's ugly head....

Beazley hunter · March 29, 2018, 09:54:52 PM

Check it out guys! I still have to sand the glue that squeezed out and do a little work on the tips but its coming along nicely I think. I got to shoot a few arrows through it the other night. I love this bow!

Beazley hunter · March 31, 2018, 02:02:56 AM

Ok I got all the sanding done I think. I sanded everything to 320 grit. I think I'm going to use Minwax Helmsman spar urethane clear satin for my finish. I'm not good with sprays or brushes so I'm going to thin it down with acetone, wipe it on and hit it with some steel wool between 3 or 4 coats. Would you guys put it on the antler overlays too? And does my plan sound good for a durable, quality looking finish?

Bvas · March 31, 2018, 08:09:06 AM

I've used spar finish before, but in a rattle can. It is a durable finish. I just didn't like the yellowing that comes with it. Whatever finish you use, you want to seal everything. You don't want moisture to find it's way in.

skeaterbait · March 31, 2018, 09:20:37 AM

Quote from: Bvas on March 31, 2018, 08:09:06 AM
I've used spar finish before, but in a rattle can. It is a durable finish. I just didn't like the yellowing that comes with it. Whatever finish you use, you want to seal everything. You don't want moisture to find it's way in.

Pardon me for barging in, what do you use for sealing the wood? I have never done that before, my brain figured the finish would seal it.

Bvas · March 31, 2018, 09:31:45 AM

Yes. The finish seals the wood.

I'm saying I would apply finish to all surfaces to make sure everything is sealed.

Your over thinking Skeater. (Never thought I'd say that. Lol)

Beazley hunter · March 31, 2018, 11:05:12 AM

Thanks for the heads up Bvas. Are you aware of any clear, wipe on finish that won't yellow? I was looking at tung oil as an option but I wasn't sure if that would seal the fiberglass and make a good finish.

Bvas · March 31, 2018, 01:22:26 PM

Not sure as far as wipe on application. I have heard of some guys trying the water based poly. I don't think it yellows, but might not be as durable.

kennym · March 31, 2018, 01:37:29 PM

If nobody has already mentioned it, poly won't dry in Bocote cause of the oils. I'd seal with shellac or spray it with auto clearcoat. Clearcoat dries really quick and is clear.

Beazley hunter · March 31, 2018, 02:00:05 PM

Thanks for the input guys. I'll look into the auto clear coat.

skeaterbait · March 31, 2018, 08:37:20 PM

Quote from: Bvas on March 31, 2018, 09:31:45 AM

Your over thinking Skeater. (Never thought I'd say that. Lol)

oooh, that cuts Bvas, cuts me deep

Beazley hunter · April 01, 2018, 02:08:08 AM

Hey Kenny do you see anything wrong with a few coats of shellac with rustoleum automotive clear enamel on top?

Beazley hunter · April 01, 2018, 03:25:16 AM

Last pictures without a finish

Beazley hunter · April 03, 2018, 10:07:19 PM

Sorry for all the pictures, but I love this bow! Got 2 coats of shellac on it, still have a few to go. I checked draw weight today, at 28" it's 47 lbs and 56 lbs @ 31". Came in a little lighter than I had planned, but it'll work just fine.

BMN · April 03, 2018, 10:37:29 PM

Nice work. That looks great!

C. Johnson · April 04, 2018, 10:00:45 AM

Looks great! Bocote is one of my favorite woods to use due to the interesting and unique grain patterns. You've built a winner for sure!

Beazley hunter · April 04, 2018, 12:11:54 PM

Thanks guys! I do like the grain of bocote.

Forwardhandle · April 04, 2018, 01:20:34 PM

Beautiful congrats!