This is my 3rd bow. It is from a tree that I cut last December that was 80+years old and about 8" in diameter. I split it into staves, left some with sapwood on as the rings were really tight and I didn't know if I could chase them or not.
I backed it with a ball python skin. It was killed crawling across a lady's patio.. I was contacted via a "what is this and is it venomous?" call...
I "reluctantly" removed it from the scene....
My wife asked that I make a bow for her brother for Christmas.. So.. it inspired me.. The python skin is much thicker and difficult than a native snake.. It could be a real backing.. I got a checking crack when I heat treated to induce reflex and remove prop twist, only one limb as I used oil on the other. Most of the crack disappeared when I tillered, but a with the grain hairline still is there...
MY BIL is graduating from optometry school this spring. I name this bow. "Opti-Mystic"
I haven't sealed it yet, still final sanding and trying to be sure the snake is dry, it took a couple of weeks and I now have it in a hot box, well it an insulated box that I added to the HVAC duct..... The scales don't want to come off like our snakes do.
Flipped the tips, antler and black walnut overlays.. I'm not able to make my tips look like each other yet... lol...
Much of the reflex left, due to moisture? I excersized the limbs monotonously.. I'm very pleased with it..
Here it is 65"ntn, 45# at 28. Sorry for the blurry cell pics...
As always, constructive criticism is welcomed! I don't have anyone close to look at my work, I'm very fortunate to be hare and to have met a few of you.