Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Nashoba on April 15, 2013, 04:28:20 pm

Title: Pre-Historic Bow Finish Information
Post by: Nashoba on April 15, 2013, 04:28:20 pm

Chin Chookma Ikanama? (How are you friends)
I am currently working on an essay concerning wood protection and durability. The part I am on now is sort of an overview of the history of wood finishes. Being the toxophilaholic I am, I am using bow finishes to illustrate the early use of wood finishes. My question is this; does anyone have resources concerning archeological bow discoveries where a specific product (bear grease, beeswax, pine resin etc.) was identified? Any other pertinent information would be welcome. Thanks!   

Title: Re: Pre-Historic Bow Finish Information
Post by: bubby on April 15, 2013, 05:50:04 pm

halfeye is a friggin' encyclopedia when it comes to stuff like what you want to know

Title: Re: Pre-Historic Bow Finish Information
Post by: IndianGuy on April 15, 2013, 05:57:08 pm

Nashoba...Chickasaw or Choctaw?  :o

Title: Re: Pre-Historic Bow Finish Information
Post by: Nashoba on April 15, 2013, 06:22:58 pm

Chickasaw! My mom is half blooded.

Title: Re: Pre-Historic Bow Finish Information
Post by: JackCrafty on April 15, 2013, 09:30:52 pm

There is very little info on this, unfortunately.  What I can say is that the paint was often the only finish.  These paints were most often hide glue or blood mixed with pigments like charcoal, ocre, clay, etc..

I will look for more info.  I've wondered about this too but it's easy to take word-of-mouth information and call it good.  Archeological studies are best, of course, especially for what you are working on.

Burnishing was also a popular "finish".  I have not seen any evidence that burnishing was done in combination with oil or grease.  Again, I'll have to check to make sure.