Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Josh B on July 18, 2013, 05:00:59 pm

Title: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Josh B on July 18, 2013, 05:00:59 pm
I'm getting  close to finishing my tradebow and as the title says, I've run into a dilemma.  I'm building a replica eastern woodlands bow from the encyclopedia of native American bows and arrows.  So far I've been able to keep it period correct with one exception.  I had to use modern paint as I don't have the proper natural pigments.   Now I find myself on the threshold of yet another compromise in authenticity.   That compromise is that I don't have my natural finish with me either.  All I have is tru-oil.  With the deadline fast approaching, and not knowing when I'll get home again and for how long it would seem I have a choice to make.  Do I stick with the natural finish plan and risk being "that guy" that didn't get it done or do I grit my teeth and use the tru-oil.  If this bow were coming to you, which would you prefer?  Josh
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: RBLusthaus on July 18, 2013, 05:10:36 pm
Since I use Tru oil on all my bows, the answer for me is simple.  That said, if you want to keep it as authentic as possible, I for one, would respect that and not care one iota if it was a little late - - but, if it is coming a little late, the mods should tell the recipient so he/she is not left wondering. 
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: TRACY on July 18, 2013, 05:13:22 pm
Tru oil!


Tracy
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: autologus on July 18, 2013, 05:24:08 pm
Use the Tru-Oil, Your not making it as a museum replica.  I'm sure your guy does not care that it is authentic, just that it was made with love.  ;D

Grady
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Badly Bent on July 18, 2013, 05:31:07 pm
Speaking for myself only.... if it were coming my way I would be happy to wait for you to finish it as you planned with a natural finish. I've made compromises a few times because I just wanted to be done with a bow and then regretted it later. Some things are worth waiting for. Either way thats gonna be a nice one Doc.
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: autologus on July 18, 2013, 05:43:05 pm
What ever  you decide on the finish it will be worth the wait.

Grady
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: bubby on July 18, 2013, 06:13:34 pm
Josh this one has to fall on your shoulders, is there any way you can pick up what you need to make your finish on the road, maybe someone here will be in route and you can acquire  some natural finish, you could have mine but i' prolly out of the way a bunch
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Josh B on July 18, 2013, 06:42:37 pm
Sorry, I got a little panicky too soon.  I'm leaving ft worth in a minute and headin home to momma and the kids!  Thank you for the replies fellas, I appreciate it!  Josh
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: lostarrow on July 18, 2013, 11:55:50 pm
Ishi used shellac when he could get it. I'm guessing he would have loved Tru oil ;)
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Josh B on July 19, 2013, 12:10:47 pm
Lol! I suspect he would have loved tru oil.  I know I do!  Josh
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Weylin on July 19, 2013, 03:06:20 pm
Well, if you're making it for me I'd say wait and do the natural finish that you want to do but I know I'm not lucky enough to get a Gun Doc bow two years in a row!
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Ifrit617 on July 19, 2013, 03:25:50 pm
Speaking for myself only.... if it were coming my way I would be happy to wait for you to finish it as you planned with a natural finish. I've made compromises a few times because I just wanted to be done with a bow and then regretted it later. Some things are worth waiting for. Either way thats gonna be a nice one Doc.

+1
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: turtle on July 19, 2013, 11:41:17 pm
What natural finish do you use? I used bees wax with a little olive oil melted into it on the short bendy handle bow i made at the classic and so far realy like it as a finish but i dont think that would be period correct though. But it is natural and easily applied with no waiting between coats.
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: coaster500 on July 20, 2013, 01:14:27 am
Doc if one of your bows was coming to me you could finish it in buttermilk...  just ship it :)
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Gus on July 20, 2013, 03:55:24 am
Tru-Oil is good stuff...

-gus
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: randman on July 20, 2013, 05:05:26 pm
I think the consensus has pretty much been "If I'm getting a Gun Doc bow, he can send it anyway he likes". I agree with that totally!
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: BowSlayer on July 20, 2013, 06:12:03 pm
i would use what i have if all you have is tru-oil then use it. hopefully your recipient awnsers and makes the desision easyer. :laugh:
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: Josh B on July 22, 2013, 10:05:37 am
Thanks fellas!  I appreciate the kind words.  I made it home and finished it with halfeye's Michigan magic bow and arrow elixir (pitch and grease)  and then beeswax.  Just a little more foo-fer-all and it'll be ready to ship. Thanks again!  Josh
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: juniper junkie on July 23, 2013, 07:52:12 pm
how does that finish hold up in the heat? I am sure this bow will be awesome. just curios about the heat on the finish.
Title: Re: tradebow dilemma
Post by: mullet on July 23, 2013, 08:52:29 pm
GD, I sent you a PM.