how much sinew will a tendon yield, by weight

[loefflerchuck]

I am lucky enough to get elk leg sinews 20-25" long. Each leg sinew yields between 25 and 35 grams of processed sinew. between 1 and 3 will back a bow with perfect long 20+" bundles. I just finished backing a 47" bighorn bow. 3 applications over 3 weeks. 142.5 grams. Over 5 ounces on this bow. Some smaller deer leg tendons will only yield 5 grams or so.

[upstatenybowyer]

What do folks use for pounding? First I used a hammer on the side of a sledge and that resulted in broken strands (too much trauma?). Then I tried rocks and got better results, but the fibers still don't keep their length, they usually break apart some when running them through my thumb nail and forefinger. Should I just go more slowly and carefully?

[bradsmith2010]

pound the sinew on a piece of wood,,, and go more slowly,,

[BowEd]

+1 what Brad said.For my longer strands of sinew as a final layer I'll use buffalo or even cow backstrap sinew 2' long or more.

[upstatenybowyer]

I'll try it. Thanks

[PatM]

You can lightly pound it on a smooth log(on the side) and then soak it and it will pull apart very easily without breaking. People break down and crush sinew way more than is necessary. Over-shred it too.