Fitting Handle to R/D Lam Bow

[Adam Keiper]

What's a simple/quick way to fit a convex handle onto the concave surface of a r/d bamboo or hickory backed bow? I've just been tracing the curve onto the handle piece and cutting it out with my bandsaw. But that still leaves a considerable amount of trial and error sanding to get a perfect fit. (I'm happy when I can't see any light through the fit of the two pieces.)

There must a simple trick or jig that will allow a quick, good fit with a drum sander. I've come up with a couple of ideas for jigs, but I can foresee flaws in each.

[bondo]

The best and easiest way I have found is to cut about 3 or 4 thin pieces, gule all sides, and clamp it to the riser. The thin pieces bend to the exact shape with a perfect glue line.I alternate the woods in the handle piece, it gives it a nice look. Alot eaiser than trying to sand a solid block for the riser.

[Keith Deters]

I've been doing the same as bondo.

I use 3 or 4, 1/4" thick slats and clamp them in my bench vise.  I use a curved caul for pressure on the belly side and I use a couple of wedges on the backing side so that I don't press out the deflex.

[Adam Keiper]

Keith I like your idea of the caul of the belly side.  Been thinking about using thin slats as mentioned, but as you mentioned, also noticed they want to push out the deflex when test fitting.  I wasn't going to go that route with my current glue-up, but may.  (I dread sanding.)  :^)

[steadman]

I put a thin piece of different color wood  inbetween the two, gives it a better finish. Here is an example of what I am trying to say. Hope this helps.

[mikecc]

Ryan, It's about time you made a new bow for yourself. It looks good.