Looking for someone knows how to do a takedown

[Cavscout9753]

So, I'm looking for someone who knows how to do a take down from a one piece longbow. I have a vixen that has had its grip slightly reshaped (prior to me) and has been a trial bow for different re-finishing types. I settled on tung oil in the end. I love the bow, but I shoot my wesley special more. I don't want to part with it, but having a take down is on my short list. I was going to do it myself (and still may if no one is available) but thought I'd try this first. I don't have exacting tools like I feel should be used to do it. If you can do it just shoot me a pm. For the naysayers, I know, I know..

[LittleBen]

No help here but would love to see it when it's finished.

[mikkekeswick]

Yes it can be done, I followed Big Jim series of videos on youtube. These show how to do it with a bow blank as you need a true edge for the reassembly.
To do this on a finished bow you can use a product like milliput to 'rebuild' a straight edge. Mix up enough and apply to the limbs and fades. Then grind it back down until you have a big enough flat surface for the reassembly.

[Cavscout9753]

That makes some sense. Thanks Mike.

[Crittergetter]

I've only done a couple, but I think it could still be done.  Would take some time and patience to get everything shimmed back up in line and square. I'd be more worried about the riser holding up to the stress of a takedown if it's not reinforced.
But, that's just me. Sometimes I push my limits and regret it!

[Cavscout9753]

I've thought about that as well. I think the key would be/is to get a threaded bolt system that is narrow yet still strong. I imagine the wider the bolt, the more riser material removed to accomodate it and thus the less riser material left for stability. Well I haven't made any cuts or anything yet, but I'm still confident it can be done. Its only a 50# draw, not like I'm trying to hold 70#'s together. I'll keep researching.

[jhk1]

By "threaded bolt system", do you mean a bow bolt or something similar?  You can't do a bow bolt conversion to a basic wood riser-- the riser needs to be reinforced (built specifically with the bow bolt in mind).  A sleeve-type takedown would be the way to go (either a 2-pc steel & brass sleeve, or the fiberglass/epoxy locket-socket type).  Maybe a connexion hinge is another option, but I don't know if the riser needs any special reinforcement.

[mikkekeswick]

Watch Big Jims video's on youtube - that's how to do it! I know because I have!
There is no way you can make it a three piece takedown.

[Cavscout9753]

Thanks for the help guys. Yeah, I was originally thinking bow-bolt but quickly decided against it since the riser mass is so low. Hinge or sleeve is what I'm looking into now.

[SportHunter]

I would skip the hinge. They require some extra build up as well to be durable. Your best bet for a non-reinforced riser is Big Jims fiberglass style or sleeve.