Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Jefficus on April 14, 2016, 02:14:40 am
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I've seen some bows which are basically straight, but have extra pieces glued or sinew wrapped on at the ends which have a bend or hook and create a recurve effect. What is this method of creating a recurve called? Informative links appreciated! Thanks all.
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I suppose they're usually called siyahs (I think from Turkish archery, but I'm not sure). I've made a couple of recurves this way. It's not my favorite but it gets the job done. I simply find a tree truck that has grown in a suitable bend and with straight grain and split it. When dry, shape and attach. I think a dovetail joint is most common, but if you're making a boo-backed bow or similar you can shape the siyah as a wedge to fit between the "bow" and the backing. Wrap with sinew. A benefit is that you can make quite a think recurve this way and thus make it very narrow (it's dicey to steam bend an inch-thick tip to a steep recurve).
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It's just a spliced in tip. It's the most convenient way for making a recurved bow of tropical wood if you want a sharper curve.
Definitely my favorite method. Whether you need to wrap it or not depends on if your backing runs over the splice or not.
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Thanks! Just couldnt remember that term.:)