first board first bow

Dozuki · May 27, 2011, 11:52:00 PM

I was looking at the so you want to build a board build along which was awesome. So I went to my neighborhood home depot for the board and the only think I could find was a 1"x2"x8'. The grain is nice and straight for most of the length so my question is just how thick should it be to draw around 50# at 28in. I was trying for a 1x3 like was used in the build but this is what I have to work with so all advice and pointers would be appreciated. Thanks

PEARL DRUMS · May 28, 2011, 08:12:00 AM

There is no sure fire recipe. Start an even taper towards the tips until it bends evenly and draws 50#. A good rule of thumb is about an 1/8" thickness taper to get started.

4est trekker · May 28, 2011, 09:38:00 AM

If you're following the pyramid design, you want an even thickness (I'd start at 1/2") and a straight line taper from fade to tip when viewing the bow's back. Does that make sense?

Dozuki · May 28, 2011, 02:03:00 PM

Yes that makes sense and seems like a good place to start. I will run it through the jointer till i hit a half inch and then taper it to half inch tips or maybe 3/4. I can always take more off. Like I have seen it is much harder to put the wood back on. thanks for the tips.

4est trekker · May 28, 2011, 03:23:00 PM

You can't plane it first and then glue on a riser. That will point your joint for the riser smack dab at the point where the bow will try to bend. Thus, your riser will pop off and/or the bow will break.

Dozuki · May 28, 2011, 05:44:00 PM

Oh. I wish I had known that an hour ago. So It should be full thickness where the riser is attached. well back to the lumber store for another board. Well live and learn.

4est trekker · May 28, 2011, 09:30:00 PM

Have you cut your handle to profile yet? If not, you can get a lightweight bend-through-the-handle D bow out of it.

Dozuki · May 28, 2011, 09:59:00 PM

No I haven't cut it yet. I don't mind a light bow. It is my first so as long as it doesn't blow up I will me happy.