Biconvex cross section

[Jack Napier]

I see a lot of bows out there with rectangular cross sections. What are the advantages of a biconvex cross section? If I understand correctly this type of bow is typically made when a split stave has wood removed from the belly only, and none from the sides. Seems like the least time consuming way to make a bow, what about performance? Thanks.

[bubby]

Most woods seem to handle a flat belly better than a convex one.  I know i only side tiller when a limb is getting too thinso i do most all tillering from the belly

[PatM]

I see a lot of bows out there with rectangular cross sections. What are the advantages of a biconvex cross section? If I understand correctly this type of bow is typically made when a split stave has wood removed from the belly only, and none from the sides. Seems like the least time consuming way to make a bow, what about performance? Thanks.

  Bioconvex is more aesthetically pleasing  in a stave bow and actually adequate for withstanding compression in most bow woods, particularly if the limb is a bit wider.

 Wood still has to be removed from the sides though or you'd never get a width profile tapering to the tips.