Trying to make my first bow, and have lots of question. using Eric’s tillering gismo

[KellyG]

Thanks Eric,

I will try it.

[KellyG]

Ok here is one of it relaxed as you can see the left has natural slight recurve a d the right straight. The right should be the top limb because I am left handed. Should I try to get the limbs to match or just leave them?



I used made and used one of Eric's tillering gismos. I set the pencil to the left limb since it seems to be bending more, and just look at the results.

Left limb



Right limb



Thanks Eric

[KellyG]

Ok I have it pulling about 40lbs@20". Should I stop with the rasp and use course sand paper? I am trying for 50lb@27". The tillering gismo also did not leave a mark on the limb either limb. I think they look even?

[Dale Hajas]

KellyG - just a thought.... While working hickory and it's starting to bend, like on a tillering tree.

When I get close to 1/2" limb thickeness I use heavy sandpaper. Same amount of strokes on each limb. After say 30 strokes I always put on a tillering string flex the bow as much as 100 times. No need to try a full draw mind you just flex the limbs.

Good Luck- you've done well already!

[KellyG]

Thanks,

I am at 1/2", I was just wondering when I have to stop with the rasp and start working out the tool mark and bring her to the desired wieght.

thanks again.

[Osagetree]

Looking good KellyG! I would go to the cabinet scraper. Use the scraper to remove the tool marks, then see where your at. You can use a good pocket knife at right angles as a scraper.

[KellyG]

thanks,

Osagetree I don't have a scraper, I may try a knife on  scrape piece of wood to see if I can scrape and not cut.

[Eric Krewson]

A palm sander with 120 grit paper is really handy for tillering.

I like half of an old pair of scissors for scraping, really takes the wood off. That is a hickory bow in the picture.



The Gizmo won't tell you how the bow is bending in the fadeout section. You have to eyeball this area.

[KellyG]

Eric thanks again, and yes that is hickory. Do you hold the scissors or knife blade 90 degrees to the limb or is there another angle used.

[Dale Hajas]

I also use a cabinet scraper. I was given a scrap planer blade that I also like to use. Eric I like the thought of that scissor, I'm gonna have to try one now!

[Eric Krewson]

I hold the scissors at about a 45 degree angle.

[KellyG]

What is a Cabinet Scraper?

[Eric Krewson]

cabinet scrapers

[KellyG]

thanks,

nope don't have them lying around no where. Just have to continue with the knife.

Kelly