Hickory bow

[wildcat hunter]

 I haven't completed a self bow for 3 years now. I tried a few but am having shoulder problems ( rotator Cuff X's 2 ). Just getting the bark off is a chore anymore. I have a question on Hickory bows. Do I have to follow the grain on the back ?  Another one what "cut" is best for Hickory EX: quarter sawn OR ?.  I have a desire to complete some bows and would be using my equipment instead of my arms to work the wood, I think shaping the grip should be no problem.


 

[Pat B]

With summer cut hickory you just peel the bark off and there is your back. No ring chasing and it is the strongest possible back for a hickory selfbow.

[wildcat hunter]

 
 OK, thanks Pat, my friend has a saw mill and said he would cut me a few boards when he gets some Hickory in. Thats why I was asking.

[Linc]

When your friend starts to cut the first slab maybe you could have him cut it a couple inches thick. Then you would just need to peel the bark off and viola instant back. As far as boards I do not think it matters whether flat, rift or quarter sawn. I am sure I will find out since I have some hickory boards that I will be working on.

[George Tsoukalas]

Don't confuse  board cut hickory with log stave hickory.

With any board the ideal is straight grained stock tip to tip. Any board cut will do. But for 1/4 cuts make sure the EDGE grain is straight.

With log staves of any whitewood including hickory, as Pat said, take off the bark and make a bow.

I like Linc's idea.

More on my site.
http://traditionalarchery101.com

Jawge

[wildcat hunter]

 

  OK, Thanks guys, I'll check your website George. Thanks