Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: upstatenybowyer on February 21, 2017, 07:44:21 pm

Title: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: upstatenybowyer on February 21, 2017, 07:44:21 pm

Hi guys. I'm doing a cork handle build up on a bendy handle bow and I'm lookin' for some pointers. Mostly on what tool I should use to shape the cork. Should I soak it something first to aid in the shaping? Seems like it might come apart if I just go right at it with a file. Thanks!

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: cadet on February 21, 2017, 07:48:00 pm

Coarse sandpaper with a flat, hard backing would cut through cork fairly cleanly and swiftly?

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: tattoo dave on February 21, 2017, 08:03:45 pm

The last bow I made had a cork handle built up on it. I did the rough shaping with a razor, then filed it to the end shape. Just glued it in between each layer.

Tattoo Dave

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: DC on February 21, 2017, 08:06:56 pm

I have a bunch of sanding sticks in various grits. They work great on cork.

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: upstatenybowyer on February 21, 2017, 08:37:43 pm

Okay gents. Thanks a bunch!

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: loon on February 21, 2017, 08:57:14 pm

how about a rasp for coarse?

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: aaron on February 21, 2017, 09:23:27 pm

I use a utility knife blade and carving chisels

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: chamookman on February 22, 2017, 03:54:08 am

I used a Nicholson Mill Bastard file lightly to shape the Cork handle on a Yew Bow I did a while back. I had layered the Grip with 1/8" Cork pieces gluing with TB ll and then heavily coating the whole thing once installed on the Bow. Sanded just like Wood - Bob.

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: bubby on February 22, 2017, 08:29:48 am

I started to use my 1×30 belt sander with a course belt, shapes it nice and smooth and no chunks are lost

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: rps3 on February 22, 2017, 08:46:05 am

I do the majority of my cork handle shaping using a 10 inch serrated knife, I hold the tip and handle for control and cut both toward and away form me. It works like a charm and you don't have to worry about ripping out chunks of cork. I then switch to a file, but not much left to do after the knife.

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: Stixnstones on February 22, 2017, 09:31:34 am

I use 1/8 strips of cork and soak each layet with super glue... seems to work great. Picked that tidbit up last year from Pearl Drums and Paulsemp

Title: Re: Cork handle shaping?
Post by: wizardgoat on February 22, 2017, 02:32:22 pm

I use a fine rasp, only rasp downwards towards the bow, not up, or you'll rip up chunks.
I protect the back of the bow, so I don't accidentally nick it. Tape, or just my thumb