Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: TurtleCreek on October 29, 2011, 04:50:20 pm

Title: Hazlenut experience
Post by: TurtleCreek on October 29, 2011, 04:50:20 pm

  I have an excellent stave of hazlenut with some subtle snake to it that I would like to make a bow out of that draws about 45 pounds at my 27 inch draw.  I have gone over Gordon's build along several times, but would like to know of other's experiences when working with this wood.  Any info on dimensions/length and such would be greatly appreciated.

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: TBod on October 31, 2011, 02:56:37 pm

I think there are some mixed opinions of Hazel.

I like it a lot. I would suggest 1,5-2" wide depending on the crown and 60-70 long. Pretty basic dimensions..

Good luck!

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: Del the cat on October 31, 2011, 03:00:51 pm

Dunno if our Hazel is different, but I'd go much wider with the Hazel we have in the UK.
Makes a fast bow but needs to be wide to avoid chrysals IMO.
Responds pretty well to heat treating and works easilly.
Del

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: TBod on October 31, 2011, 03:09:40 pm

I've got all my Hazel from the same spot. There sheep there pruning the trees. I think they benefit from that. For example there are some trees which are outside the fence and they don't look so good. Just a little theory..

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: TurtleCreek on October 31, 2011, 03:12:15 pm

  It only has a very slight crown, maybe an 1/8 inch at most when compared to the back corner edges of the stave.

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: bubby on October 31, 2011, 03:30:49 pm

not to many people build a nicer bow than Gordan, I have read his build-a-long as well, I personally think that I would follow it closely, Bub

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: Dazv on October 31, 2011, 04:44:34 pm

heat treating works a treat.

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: Gordon on November 01, 2011, 04:00:19 am

For a stiff handled design I would make it 1 3/4" wide by 64" long. That will give you enough wood for a 45 lbs bow.

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: TurtleCreek on November 01, 2011, 04:55:51 am

Thanks Gordon, there should be plenty of wood to make it those dimensions- the stave is actually 68 inches long and about 2 inches wide.  I will make a post of it's progress once I dive into it.

Title: Re: Hazlenut experience
Post by: mikekeswick on November 01, 2011, 05:47:12 am

I would trap the back a good amount - it's way stronger in tension.
Heat treating will transform it! I've had hazel bows hold 3 inches of reflex.
Watch out for the chrysals - your tiller must be perfect.