Paddle Bow

[LaBill67]

Could someone point me in the right direction to obtain some working dimensions for the design of a paddle bow?

You might wanna talk to KenH...

[KenH]

Working dimensions for a paddle bow:

*  1-1/8 to 1-1/4" wide, 4-5" long handle
*  Limbs are "spindle" shaped",
  2.5" to 3.5" wide half way between fade and
  nock, tapering to 3/8" pin nocks
*  Limb thickness 1/4" to 3/8", sinew backed
*  Length 42"- 46" tip to tip
*  Draw length -- 22"-24"

Originals were almost invariably sinew backed.  They were designed for hunting in THICK foliage at SHORT distances, often from a sitting position and drawn to the chest or bow arm shoulder.

If you make a bow more than 48" long, it's a Flat Bow, not a Paddle Bow regardless of the 'hourglass' shape of the limbs.

If you make the bow for more than 24" draw it's a Flat Bow not a Paddle Bow.

[Pat B]

Encyclopedia of Native American Bows, Arrows and Quivers By Jim Hamm and Steve Allely.

[LaBill67]

Thanks Ken. I am thinking about using IPE with a hickory backing. What do you think about that combination?

[KenH]

Not sure that that thin of backing will be much help -- rather think of it as a two-wood bow, back and belly in relatively equal amounts.  Give it a try!