Beech Stave Bow

[razorback]

So I have a beech stave roughed to 72" long, 2" wide and about 1" thick the length of the limbs. Fades are 3" long and the handle is 4"long and 2" square.

 What would be a good design for this piece of wood. I know the wood will determine the exact design but any suggestions from anyone who has used this wood, would be appreciated. I am thinking 1 7/8" for half the length of the limb and then tapering to 1/2" tips. I am not sure if a flat belly or rounded belly would be best. I am planning a stiff handle section for this bow.

[Pat B]

Tony, Like most whitewoods I would go with a flat belly. Your dimensions sound good to me. I would leave the tips at 1/2" for now but reduce them to 3/8" or less when you are done.

[razorback]

Thanks Pat.
Should I reduce the width to closer to final dimension, while it is still drying, or wait until ready to work it properly.

[Pat B]

Leave it as it is while drying and reduce it when you start back to working on it. I haven't built a bow with beech so I don't know about how it acts while drying. I have cut straight poles for bows but haven't made bows from them or a stave. It seems to be pretty tough and heavy wood...and that's a good thing!  d;^)

[ron w]

No shortage of beech up in your neck of the woods....let me know how it comes out....I may try one since it's so easy to find.

[Bow-n-Head]

Tony; U make a BBO yet???   Ray