Re shaping a grip?

[Dave Thaxton]

I have a takedown recurve which I am considering doing a little reshaping of the riser for a better hand fit. There is enough material there to do some minor work on the belly side. Wanting to take it from a rounded(medium) to more of a flat area(lower) for the heel of my hand. Not a woodworker but I think I can do this with a wood rasp, file and sand paper.Should I be careful of any splintering etc? What is the best sealant to use after doing this? Polyurathane work? I will cover with leather wrap upon completion.
Thanks for your input.

[Bradford]

The main thing with the re-finishing is trying to match the finish.  Reshaping should not be a big deal over all.. just don't take material away from critical areas that might cause weakness.  But you might need to sand the whole thing down.. at lease somewhat and re-finish the whole bow so it looks right.

[S Biles]

Dave, i dont know what kind of bow you be working on, but you shouldnt have to worry about splintering hardwood to much. Poly should work fine for sealing the wood under your leather grip. just take it slow, and remember you cant put it back on. good luck

[PEARL DRUMS]

My two cents. I have refinished several bows from old junkers to nice ones. I dont suggest "spot" fixing the bow. I would sand the entire riser down after you reshape the area in question, including the sides of the limbs. Get some GOOD outdoor spray poly and put at least 5-7 coats on the entire bow tip to tip. I use satin exclusivley, it keeps the glare down and looks very nice. I have heard "stay away from the glass", I always sand the ENTIRE bow. Its wood, dont be scared to play around and learn, you cant hardly hurt it if you go slowwwww.

[Dave Thaxton]

Been away for the weekend. Thanks for the info.

[ron w]

Go for it Dave. I have done some reshaping and it's not that hard. Use a bow that you like as a pattern and take your time. Work it slowly and keep checking how it feels in your hand. You can do it    Use can use any thing to seal it up, poly,tru oil,Deft, I like a satin finish!