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Main Boards => The Shooters FORM Board => Topic started by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:30:00 PM

Title: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:30:00 PM

In the Masters of the Barebow III, Rod Jenkins introduced a training device that has been used for many years by Olympic archers and others wishing to ensure proper shooting form.  

This device, called the Formaster, is available at various archery outlets for $30-$40, however, many of us trad archers are "cheap" and are always trying to find a way to save money and at the same time achieve a sense of satisfaction in making our own equipment.

After attending a shooting clinic with Rod in Hood River, Oregon, I had the opportunity to use the device and became convinced of its value in attaining the proper back tension during the shot.

See the MBB III DVD for an excellent segment regarding its use as well as the posting on this forum by "onesharpbroadhead".

If you are interested in making your own Formaster, I've prepared a short tutorial for making your own.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: moebow on July 22, 2009, 04:36:00 PM

UUhhh.... and that tutorial would be ....where?????

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:41:00 PM

The supplies you need are probably in your garage.  Take some 1" nylon webbing and cut it approximately 34" long (when folded it will be about 17").  Find yourself about 30" of parachute cord or similar small non-stretch rope. Your last item is a small brass eyelet with 1/4" hole

  (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d108/lwscott/FM-1.jpg)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:43:00 PM

Be patient here...  :D  I type slow and have to post pics too.   ;)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:45:00 PM

Fold the web strap in half and stitch the middle together approximately 1.25" from the end.  This makes a small loop for the other end to insert.

 (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d108/lwscott/FM-2.jpg)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 22, 2009, 04:51:00 PM

Good man! I see where they say a Large is 11"-12" around the elbow...is that what you are making with the 17" strap?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:52:00 PM

Place the ends together and secure with the eyelet using your hammer.  (Wal-Mart has eyelet kits for under $3.  

After putting in the eyelet, thread the end through the loop you made by stiching.

 (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d108/lwscott/FM-3.jpg)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 04:55:00 PM

Snag...good point and thanks for the reminder.
I'm kind of a "husky" old guy and have an elbow circumference of 12.5".

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 22, 2009, 04:58:00 PM

You are a brute! haha  This is good.....

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 05:00:00 PM

Secure your cord to the eyelet after looping the other end on the bowstring BELOW the nocking point.  When properly setup, there should be about an inch of slack in the string with your fingers on the string and the strap on your arm.

(the bow is a Fox Royal Crown crafted by Ron King AND is NOT for sale!)

  (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d108/lwscott/FM-4.jpg)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 05:05:00 PM

This is the way the Formaster should look when it is in place.  Keep in mind that the nylon strap can feel uncomfortable on the bare arm.  To remedy this, cut the end off an old sock (or new sock    ) and slip it over the arm before putting on the nylon strap.  Make sure the staps are on each side of the elbow and snug.

The pic appears that the cord is secured above the nock, but is actually placed below. (I simply moved my fingers so it would show in the pic.)

   (http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d108/lwscott/FM-5.jpg)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 22, 2009, 05:10:00 PM

OHHHHHH! There it is! That Royal Crown has been haunting me ever since you let me shoot it!    :banghead:  I'll have to wait until Feb......

That's an inch slack at full draw...? It seems they checked the slack when they had us come to anchor.

Lon, I don't remember, do you nock the arrow with the string on top and below the arrow nock or do you nock the arrow below the string..which is below the nocking point?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 05:17:00 PM

The inch slack is NOT at full draw, but at the point you nock your arrow and before the draw begins.

Tie the cord BELOW the nocking point with the arrow ABOVE.  Rod addressed this in MBB III and mentioned doing it this way to avoid one of the limbs doing something weird...but forgot the details.

I believe onesharpbroadhead tied his string on ABOVE the arrow and it seemed to work fine for him.  Look at his youtube video and you will see what "good form" he has.  (He hardly moves after the shot...   :thumbsup:   )

I'm still learning this stuff and would appreciate any tips or corrections to this post.

After "Snag" asked for photos yesterday, I thought I would just do this tutorial.

Again, any advice or comments are welcome.

This is serious business and we're all in this together, huh?    :goldtooth:

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 22, 2009, 05:21:00 PM

I wonder if you shoot 3 under, like I do, you are suppose to tie the string on above the nocking pt. or below the arrow nock..??? Because with 3 under the arrow nocks below the string nock.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 05:31:00 PM

I think you should try both ways and see which you prefer.  Onesharpbroadhead shoots 3-under and placed his cord above, so that may be the preferred for you 3-under shooters.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: moebow on July 22, 2009, 05:40:00 PM

Thanks Blackhawk,  I'm a volunteer instructor and can't afford $40 for each student but I sure can afford to make these.  Thanks Again.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 05:51:00 PM

For about 15 minutes of your time, it is such a simple and inexpensive device to make.   ;)  

How anyone has the nerve to ask $40 for one makes me think the manufacturer thought he had a government contract.   :knothead:

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: runamuk on July 22, 2009, 06:35:00 PM

Thanks Lon,, got everything i need out in the shop.. Great job on the how to...
I look forward to the next time we meet up,, you were alot of fun to be around

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Dick in Seattle on July 22, 2009, 07:37:00 PM

Excellent job, Lon!   I came home planning to make a couple but got buried in chores and computer stuff. 4 1/2 hrs. today taking to New Delhi to resolve problems with a new printer... BAH!   There, I feel better....

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: mudSwine on July 22, 2009, 10:27:00 PM

Cool thanks !!!!!!!!!

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: SHOOTO8S on July 22, 2009, 10:29:00 PM

The reason you want to keep the cord below the nock is.....if it slips while under tension above the string nock...the top limbs tip can hit you in the face.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Winterhawk1960 on July 22, 2009, 10:43:00 PM

I am seriously considering making me one of these. After reading Rod's post above, it got me to thinking......what would happen if it slipped downward, towards the lower limb tip, while under tension ??? The answer that I DON'T WANT TO HEAR IS........it will hit me in the "family jewels". Someone put a fella's mind at ease here, please.

Winterhawk1960

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: SHOOTO8S on July 22, 2009, 10:48:00 PM

Not to worry....if you look at the draw cycle, tension is always upwards on the formaster cord...hence the original manufacturer's recommendation to always attach under the string nock.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Winterhawk1960 on July 22, 2009, 10:51:00 PM

Alrighty then......I'm a gonna have one of these before the sun sets tomorrow.

Thanks......Rod   :thumbsup:    :thumbsup:  

Winterhawk1960

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: D. Devall on July 22, 2009, 11:04:00 PM

uh, and what exactly dose this gizmo do?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 22, 2009, 11:19:00 PM

gator,

check this out and be sure to click on the youtube video.

  http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=6;t=004682

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: D. Devall on July 23, 2009, 12:08:00 AM

ok, got it. thank you!

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: D. Devall on July 23, 2009, 12:11:00 AM

wow. i want that guy's range.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: bbold on July 23, 2009, 10:24:00 PM

Thanks Lon. I read your post and made me one and it works great. Thanks for saving me $30 or $40

James

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: South MS Bowhunter on July 23, 2009, 11:35:00 PM

Question to Rod or anyone who can answer.  If you shoot 3 fingers and you place the string below the nock point do you place your top finger around the string or below it?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 23, 2009, 11:56:00 PM

Put the string below the nock, then the arrow nock, then your fingers.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Walt Francis on July 24, 2009, 03:07:00 AM

Hi Snag, Thanks for everything you did getting the clinic together.

Guess I got it wrong at the clinic, I had my arrow-nock directly under the nocking-point and the formmaster string under the arrow-nock.  When I drew the bow I put my pointer finger over the form-master string for some of the shots and under the string for the resst of the shots: I couldn't tell much difference.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned, always keep your thumb under the form-master string.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: bbold on July 24, 2009, 07:30:00 AM

Thanks, Lon I just made one and it works great. You just saved me $40.

Thanks,James

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 24, 2009, 10:00:00 AM

Hi Walt, sure was fun getting to spend some time learning from Rod with you and the others. Hope our paths cross again sometime.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: South MS Bowhunter on July 24, 2009, 10:55:00 AM

Thanks Snag and Walt it seem to make more sense like what Walt said, the arrow nocked under the string nock and then the Formaster string under the arrow. Just wasn't sure if you cover the Formaster string with your index finger or butt up tight against it.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: SHOOTO8S on July 24, 2009, 07:40:00 PM

As long as the formaster cord attaches under the string nocking point(for safety reasons), there's no wrong way. In fact, you can set up a second string nock point 3-4'' under the string nocking point your shooting, which for some makes using a formaster more comfortable.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: South MS Bowhunter on July 24, 2009, 08:06:00 PM

Rod, what is the proper amount of slack in the string once attached.  Some say 1"-1 1/2" but on another site they state you should "not be able to touch the Formaster string" with your fingers on your drawing hand, and that if set properly the arrow should not leave the bow.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: SHOOTO8S on July 24, 2009, 08:29:00 PM

Dick Carella, the originator of the Formaster, instructs that the cord needs adjusted to allow the bowstring to travel 1''....for me this means with no loss of back tension....I  need 1'' of slack in the Formaster attachment cord.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: South MS Bowhunter on July 24, 2009, 08:54:00 PM

Thanks

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: runamuk on July 24, 2009, 09:40:00 PM

Just completed a couple of em, Made em out of an old ratchet strap.. ""Thanks Lon""

I have a question though,, while using it every shot ends up flying left, Is that a tell that i need to make an ajustment somewhere??

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Blackhawk on July 24, 2009, 09:58:00 PM

I hope Rod chimes in, but my thinking is to not be concerned how your arrow flies.  Your concern should be that your bow hand remains steady and the drawing hand do the same.  If this happens, it means you are "coming to conclusion" with proper back tension.  

Check out the youtube video on this forum which was posted by 'onesharpbroadhead".

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: runamuk on July 24, 2009, 10:48:00 PM

Howdy Lon,, yep i checked out the video..Great job by onesharpbroadhead..
Talk about conclusion!!! I have been videoing most of my shots then checking em out in slow motion.. While watching i was disappointed with my release, My hand would only come back a couple of inches after release..
Well after shooting about ten minutes with the formaster,, i took it off and videoed six shots, Then went in and watched em,, I had no idea at the time i was shooting,,But when i went in to watch the video i was shocked to see my hand come almost all the way back to my shoulder..
Then i compared previous video with that one i was blown away by how much quieter my bow was after using the formaster..
It just keeps getting sweeter by the minute..

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: SHOOTO8S on July 24, 2009, 11:06:00 PM

Lon's correct.......when or how the arrow flies is of no matter. The only reason I use an arrow with the formaster at all, is to become familiar with not relaxing at release, in the same setting, as you will be shooting.

You can practice in your living room, without an arrow and gain much of the same benefit.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: snag on July 25, 2009, 12:31:00 AM

You were right Rod...my wife nixed the target in the fireplace idea! Dang...  :biglaugh:

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: rover747 on August 07, 2009, 04:53:00 PM

ttt

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Steve Gabriel on August 13, 2009, 04:16:00 PM

I live in an apartment, so I don't have a backyard to practice in. I get to the range on weekends. I put in 1 or 2 sessions a week with the formaster and "shoot" without an arrow.
It's a great way to work on form.

If you check Viper's book, "Shooting the Stickbow", he has a series of drills with the formaster.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: AllenR on August 14, 2009, 08:09:00 AM

How often and how much should we practice with the formmaster?

Is it something that should be done every day or is it a once a week type thing?

Thanks,
Allen

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Steve Gabriel on August 14, 2009, 02:24:00 PM

as often as you can without stressing out your muscles.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: coffee on August 16, 2009, 03:04:00 PM

Blackhawk thank you for sharing this info.  I have just finished watching MBBIII several times. I know there is no magic pill for good shooting but this sure breaks it down into things that can help us all and especially me!.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Tater John on September 02, 2009, 07:48:00 PM

Just happened to read this thread Sunday and made one up right away. What a tattle tell device. After about 15 releases I removed the formaster. My group and form improved substantially. I've used it off and on for three days now and I feel those muscles that I thought I was using properly getting retrained.

 Thanks Blackhawk  :thumbsup:

 Rusty

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: hunterken on March 28, 2010, 09:27:00 PM

Here is the link to the video

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AV9YCudXt9I

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Dawnpatrol on March 29, 2010, 07:07:00 PM

Nice explaination and how to. I already built one but like your design much better. I'm gonna make another one, this time like you done.
Thanks!

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: tradsniper on March 29, 2010, 10:50:00 PM

How do I attach the eylet?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: OutbackMan on April 02, 2010, 08:49:00 PM

That's awesome...I just made two in a matter of about 10 minutes.  Materials cost about $1.50-$2.00/unit, so glad I didn't blow $40 on one.  Question on use...is it simply a "reporting" type tool for after you release?  I guess I originally thought it was used in the drawing process also, but that doesn't seem so.  I've never used one before tonight.  Thanks again.

Tradsniper...I use a grommet tool/grommet pliers...

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: FlintRiverKen on April 05, 2010, 12:46:00 PM

Some walmarts have the 1/4" eyelets, some don't. Look in and around the sewing machine stuff.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Junglecat on April 05, 2010, 06:28:00 PM

I found the eyelets at Tractor Supply in little individual packets.I think they were $0.49 each.They were in the dept. where you buy loose screws,etc.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: tradsniper on April 17, 2010, 01:27:00 PM

Ok I finally got the eyelet in but now I need to find some paracord. What places sell paracord or do i have to order it online

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: tradsniper on April 18, 2010, 12:26:00 AM

also does it matter if i use the 450 or 550 paracord?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: OutbackMan on April 19, 2010, 10:11:00 AM

tradsniper...not sure if it matters or not, but I used small diameter non stretch nylon rope that I got from a craft store (I was dragged there by my wife and decided to make use of otherwise wasted time...ha ha ha)

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: falcon on April 24, 2010, 11:30:00 PM

I made one of these after reading this thread. The cord is hitting me in the face when I go to conclusion.  My anchor is pretty far back on my face.

Is there too much slack?  Anyone else do this?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: ncsaknech1ydh on June 26, 2010, 01:14:00 PM

Falcon, I am just in the process of making one of the formasters for myself, getting the materials together, so I am not sure from personal use, but it seems to me that someone said on another thread that after having the formaster attached to the string and your elbow to then pull back on the bow without attaching your fingers at all to the string and this will show you exactly which muscles you should be using. Again, not sure about that as far as personal experience goes. DK.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: ncsaknech1ydh on June 26, 2010, 01:17:00 PM

Oops: Last post was for 'OutBackMan', Falcon, I to anchor far back on my face, so I will let you know once I get mine done it the string is hitting me in the face or not. DK.

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: ridge runner on June 30, 2010, 07:35:00 PM

Lon , I was going to buy one to stay in shape but caught this thread, it took 15 minutes to make and $3.00 ( for the eyelets). I want to say a big thanks to you for putting this out there.   :clapper:

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: Dry Creek on September 17, 2010, 05:43:00 PM

ttt

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: chuck172 on September 30, 2010, 09:08:00 AM

Have the "how to" pictures in the beginning of this topic been moved or deleted?

Title: Re: Want to make a Formaster?
Post by: BigCountryOK on October 25, 2010, 01:50:00 PM

Does anyone have the pics they could send me?  I'm looking at making one.