Bow lamination moisture

[cylyntbowyer]

I have a bow that needs finishing, got it from Harry elburg. It's a reverse handle longbow an it has been ready to finish for 10-12 years. Just been setting in his shop on a bow rack. It is red elm laminations. I'm worried about the moisture % from being exposed and not sealed up for so many years. My meter says 12% om the laminations. What do you guys think?

[Roy from Pa]

I see nothing wrong with 12%, wouldn't want it any higher. 8 to 10% is ideal. I'd put them in a warm dry place and try to get it down to 10%, shouldn't take long.

[wandering monk]

once you apply the epoxy...and put it in the kiln it really is acedemic...

6-15% does OK...12 is very good...red elm is very porous and recieves epoxy very well...

avoid any chemical solvents...36X is the basic taper grind...a little "scuff" over the time mentioned is OK...but keep it to a minimum...

[Crooked Stic]

If the bow is already glued up just let it acclimate to your shop for a week or two and spray it. If you are gluing you just want each piece to be the same MC. 12 is on the high side but would be ok.