Osage shortbow question

[banderson965]

I have some Osage slats that are 1” x 3/4” x 64” and am wondering what could be done with them besides a kids bow? I have hickory to use as a backing. Thank you for your help

[Pat B]

Hickory backing on an ELB style bow. You could probably get 50#+ with it, maybe more.

[banderson965]

Thanks Pat. Never attempted an ELB but I may give it a shot

[lebhuntfish]

Depending on the design of your bow and how well vursed in your tillering skills you could easly make an adult bow.  Just glue on a handle and tiller it out.  It takes very little Osage to make an adult bow.  I have one that is 52lbs 62in long an inch wide or less in spots and definitely under 3/4 thick.  I hunt with it and killed a very nice buck with it this year. 

You could always put a layer of sinew on the back for protection or some thin rawhide. 

Patrick

[sleek]

Yeah, i like that bow you have Pat

That osage you have is a good candidate for a bamboo back. If you would rather not mess with it, i may be interested in working a deal with you for it?

[banderson965]

What you got Pat ? I could spare a couple of pieces. I was wanting some style help. I am not well versed in bowmaking but have some successful hybrid pyramids and working on some reflex/deflex hickory backed ipe. I have progressively gotten shorter and shorter as I want to hunt from blinds and stands. I failed to mention I have some bamboo as well for backing material.

[banderson965]

I am sorry my last post  was directed at Sleek

[Pat B]

Hickory is so much easier as a backing. You still get good performance and better durability IMO although it's not as sexy. 

[lebhuntfish]

Well hickory and bamboo both draw moisture so either would be good.  I personally prefer bamboo.

I would do the reflex deflex like your ipe. But thats my favorite design.  As far as that goes just about any design would probably work.

Patrick