bow build

[traditional1970]

Do I Have to use a backing such as glass for a laminated bow.  I want to make a few Howard Hill styles with lams only.  Is it possible?  What are the better woods for this design?

[red hill]

Yes. You can use hickory, maple, 'boo... I've had success with all three of these. Just make sure the backing is as flawless as possible. Someone else will chip in with other suggestions I would imagine.

Where are you, Roy? He's one of your homeboys.

[Roy from Pa]

Use 1/4" thick Osage for the belly wood, 1/8th thick walnut for the core lam, and bamboo for the back. What part of Pa you in? I'm in the SW...

[traditional1970]

1 hr north of Harrisburg

a coworker likes the bows I have built and his family has a lumbermill and will cut any wood I need.  He has a planer and wants to help build some to sell.

[Roy from Pa]

Ouch, we are 4 hours apart.