Hello everyone. I have finally decided on a design for a near-perfect dense osage board. I want to make a setback handle with severe static recurves. I realize this bow will be under a lot of stress and store a lot of energy, so I will definately take my time tillering. I have no problem taking a long time to tiller a bow such as this. I have a few questions regarding this design, but I figure I will give my layout dimensions and my plans before I ask the questions.
Desired Draw Weight: 85# (yes, I can handle it)
Draw Length: 30" (yes...I actually draw fully to 30")
Bow Length: 66" (want to go 64", but I think that would be too short for this design and a 30" draw)
Width at fades: 1 3/8"
Taper: Parallel limbs from fades to last 3rd of limb, then taper to 3/8" wide at tips
Degree of setback: 5"
Degree of recurve: Severe static
Handle/Fades: 4" handle with 3" fades
Thickness at handle: 1" + 1/2" riser that conforms to curve on setback handle
Approx. length of working limb: 20-24"
Here are my questions:
1. I am not sure of what to start with in terms of thickness taper from the fades.
2. I don't know how thick the static recurve needs to be in order for it not to bend through the draw.
3. With bows of this design, it appears as though the thickness of the working limbs look parallel, almost like they tillered the bow by tapering the sides instead, like you would do if you used the mass principle or if it was a pyramid design. I don't want a pyramid design on this bow...parallel limbs until the last 3rd, then taper the last 3rd, so I know I have to taper the belly gradually. Knowing that most of the bows of this design "look" like they don't taper much in thickness, I will just have to be very careful and slow during tillering (which is fine).
Any reccomendations for the questions I have are greatly appreciated. Thanks!