Homemade Longbow

[Zanglo]

Recently got lost in a YouTube tornado that sent me into home made flat / longbows. So I’ve taken up a new hobby. Working on a red oak longbow now, if it doesn’t explode before I reach 30 inch draw, I’ll post a picture. Wish me luck!

 

[sportyg]

Have a close friend working on one in Elsinore

 

[Zanglo]

Have a close friend working on one in Elsinore

I’m in menifee, right next door. That’s pretty awesome, looking to find others with the same interests. I’m not from California so I don’t have many connections down here yet

 

[Sawfish]

Not a bow maker, but I was wondering about the flexibility of red oak in a bow. From my woodcutting days I know it splits easily. Seems like something like lemonwood might be better for a bow.

 

[Zanglo]

Not a bow maker, but I was wondering about the flexibility of red oak in a bow. From my woodcutting days I know it splits easily. Seems like something like lemonwood might be better for a bow.

Hardwoods are the best for bow making, but they do blow up and split, finding the right backing helps hold it together. I’m using fiberglass drywall tape and wood glue. Hopefully I don’t end up with a black eye from a broken bow!

 

[Zanglo]

Bowstring finished today

should be done and shooting next week or so

 

[Zanglo]

A little more progress on my bow. Leather handle, with some cordage and a hand made antler button from a black tail fork I had laying around.
At about a 20 inch draw, trying to get to 29, but it’s hot and I’m taking the rest of the day off

 

[gemihur]

Nice work
I commend you!

 

[Zanglo]

Well it blew up on me, but I’ll start a new one today.
Made some cool tip overlays from the same antler, and I’m going to use rawhide from the deer I shot in Idaho last year for a backing instead of fiberglass.

 

[THE ROMAN ARCHER]

…tra

 

[Common Sense]

Bummer

 

[BelchFire]

Can you post up how you plan to mount those overlays? Are they glued on? I don't imagine that being very strong. Surely you have a good mechanical connection as well as adhesive?

 

[Zanglo]

They go on the front of the bow, only glued. They are for looks, hardwood doesn’t need overlays unless at very high draw weights from my (mis)understanding of it

Can you post up how you plan to mount those overlays? Are they glued on? I don't imagine that being very strong. Surely you have a good mechanical connection as well as adhesive?

ont

 

[sportyg]

Keep at it you'll get it down pat

 

[gemihur]

The Wright Bros. didn't fly at first.
Keep trying!

 

[Grandroyal]

Nice way better than my stick bow I made for my son.

 

[WyoDakota]

I commend your efforts! Life's about Learning. Keep at it!