Primitive Archer

Sorry - trying to get the hang of attaching pics!
Hopefully a couple more of the spotted gum bow. Rob

Thanks everyone. Great advice! Hamish - I’m in Samford Valley, Brisbane so there are a few Chinese Elms and saplings nearby.

Regarding the reflex - as per a technique I saw online (helping a sapling to dry by thinning out the belly), I used a draw knife to take the sapling belly halfway through the thickness on each limb, sealing the back and ends and leaving the handle section full thickness. While monitoring the drying process I’ve noticed it’s naturally pulled itself into a reflex. I’ve left the width profile alone for now (while drying) to avoid twisting. Is this enough reflex and/or would you heat treat anyway to ‘lock’ it in this shape?

I’ll attach a couple of pics of the sapling back and side, and sitting on a bench showing a 1.5inch reflex bend at the handle (apologies if that’s the wrong terminology!)

I’ll also send a couple of pics of my recent spotted gum board bow and late-ish tiller…

Rob

I think you'll be better of sawing it. Elder typically also has twist, that doesn't help either with splitting.

Quote from: JW_Halverson on February 03, 2025, 12:43:50 am

Quote from: liyeliye123123 on February 02, 2025, 01:10:03 pm

long time no see primitive archers

I'm looking for some python skins for bow backing. Do you know anyone whos selling it or where i can get some?

thanks.

so glad the forum is back!!

I literally shouted with joy when I saw you had posted! So glad to see you again. It was a real pleasure to hang out with you at the Tennessee Classic last May and watch you work. I love your passion for crafting wood bows AND the amazing bows you turn out. Give my love to your family, brother!

Really enjoyed talking with you at the classic. Im going this year too!! hope to see you there!!

Not this year, brother, I am going to OJAM in Oklahoma in March

Quote from: liyeliye123123 on February 02, 2025, 01:10:03 pm

long time no see primitive archers

I'm looking for some python skins for bow backing. Do you know anyone whos selling it or where i can get some?

thanks.

so glad the forum is back!!

I literally shouted with joy when I saw you had posted! So glad to see you again. It was a real pleasure to hang out with you at the Tennessee Classic last May and watch you work. I love your passion for crafting wood bows AND the amazing bows you turn out. Give my love to your family, brother!

Really enjoyed talking with you at the classic. Im going this year too!! hope to see you there!!