I got some more done on this sucker and figured I'd post a couple pictures. The first bow in this thread didn't make the weight I wanted so I started this second one in hopes of it becoming my trade bow. I finished tillering it and it's at about 53 lbs @28, so once I'm done the finish sanding it should be just where I want it. I was contemplating trying to heat treat this a bit, because from what I've read maple responds really well to it, but it's getting pretty close to crunch time, and I'm not sure I want to rush another one if something goes wrong (since I've never done it before).
I put 3 layers of rawhide on both sides of the grip to build it up a bit, figuring a wooden handle would just pop off. I've been wanting to try a grip like this for a while. I have a stingray skin that I think I might try for the handle wrap.
I got the tips (overlayed with African Mahogany) roughed-out and tried a few shots outside in the dark, since I couldn't wait till tomorrow
Seems to shoot nicely, but makes a bit of a twang when released. Not really any hand shock though.
Here's some crappy pics of brace and full draw. I didn't notice till after I took the pics that it wasn't sitting quite level on the tree. Both limbs are actually pretty much even.
Thanks for looking. Any commentary is appreciated