This is my first attempt at building an ambush style bow. I have several species of wood in my shop, but I wanted to start by experimenting with vine maple as I am the most familiar with it. I’m fairly pleased with the result though it follows the string more than I like (2" after unstringing). The next one I build will probably be a little wider, slightly longer, somewhat less draw weight and will have a tempered belly.
Here are the bow’s specifications: 55” ntn, 67# @ 27”, 1 1/2" wide, no arrow rest, rawhide backing, brown leather dye limbs with black accents on the tips, elk hide handle wrap with Strunk-style wrap, bends slightly through the handle, tips are mildly reflexed to improve string angle.
Much of my hunting occurs in dense brush and swamp and can see how such a style of bow would be handy. Not to mention they are fun to build and shoot.