Hey guys, i managed to finish up ( in between hunting) this Osage R/D for my nephew Matt. I started this bow about two years ago. This was one of those builds where I kept putting it aside because of a host of character flaws it had. At times I didn't think the stave was bow worthy. I layed the bow out around many knots, which made it really snakey. The character was cool but the string was way off the handle.... I seen how much work it needed and in the rafters it went. About a month or two ago I pulled it back down. After five heat sessions I was able to get the string to line up, get most of the prop out, and work out some kinks. I thought the work was over until I got to the tiller. This was the worst one I've ever done! It fought me every inch of the way. During the battle I was losing to much weight, so I piked it a few inches and fought it some more. I think it was the slight prop that was throwing me off and I wanted the reflex to open up at full draw. I finally got to the point where I was losing too much weight again and said "good enough". The bow finished 59 1/2" and draws 50#@28". He actually draws close to 29". The bow is backed with linen copperheads and finished with satin poly. I used several coats because the linen really sucks it up. The grip is leather and string is b50. The overlays are cedar over ebony. As much of a pain this bow was it was well worth it. This young man has been my shooting partner since he was three. He hung his recurve up for a few years ago and has been shooting compound. This is his first selfbow. After thanking me for the bow, he looked at me and said with a smile "uncle, I almost forgot how much fun this was"..... Made my day!!
Two years ago my oldest boy, Ayden was out in the shop with me. He asked what I was doing. I replied... Making a bow. He looked at me and said man... That's Crazy Crooked!!! At that point I new what the name would be. thanks for looking
Jon
BTW.. That's Matt in the photos. I only wish I was tall and handsome.. Lol
