A buddy of mine asked me to build his father in law a bow for Christmas. I was nervous to build one for someone else but also very honored. So far all my bows have been for my own use. There is a bit of symbolic meaning in this bow's veneers too. Curt , the father in law, is a teacher and football coach in Sycamore IL.
Used a new style of form with this build. Mike from 7Lakes was a huge help with this build with both advice and supplies. He explained how to use a 1.5" piece of 3/8" thick steel flat bar as a form. With a little tinkering the same form can give you either a string follow, straight, or slightly reflexed bow. This particular bow has about 1/2" of reflex to it. I am very happy with the glue lines on this bow. I had previously used a rubber band form. I really like the flexibility of this form, and will continue to use his method. I have to put a leather grip and rest on it yet. Already have 3 coats of Helmsman Spar on it. I'm waiting on Curt's daughter to write a note and the specs on the bow before I put the final few coats on.
Here are the specs
50@28
.485 total stack
.050 clear glass back and belly
.120 boo taper .002
.125 maple taper .002
.080 boo taper .001
.030 quarter sawn Sycamore veneers
.030 black glass tip wedges 3" long
Black Phenolic and Black walnut tips
Black Walnut riser