Backings for bows

[tsimo25]

Hi,

  I was wondering about backing materials.  I have tried A couple different materials and was wondering if there is anything that goes into the "Never Use This" Category.  So far my favorites have been FibaFuse a Fiberglass wall board tape and paper.  I liked using a heavier craft paper that I could run through the printer and put a pattern on.  I am asking as I am getting ready to start on a new oak bow and am planning on trying a camo finish.  I have some burlap and was wondering if that would work as backing.  

Thanks

[macbow]

The only problem I see with burlap is it's weight, might slow the limbs down a little.

I had good luck with regular cotton camo fabric.

[tsimo25]

Its a light weight craft burlap with a more open weave the weight is in the same range as the craft paper.  I will go ahead and try it.

[Mad Max]

The more open weave is going to hold more glue (Weight)

[wood carver 2]

I have a bow that's backed with a camo t shirt. It looks really cool.
Dave.

[PEARL DRUMS]

None of those do much for your bow, the drywall tape really robs performance. Your best bet is unbacked straight grained boards. If the need for a back arises then Id suggest rawhide, sinew, maple, hickory, ash or bamboo.

[macbow]

Totally agree with Pearl, I did my camo cloth just for looks.

[Mad Max]

Yep

[mikkekeswick]

I like fresh air and straight grain  
If I have to back a stave for some reason then it's rawhide or design it for sinew.

[tsimo25]

I am trying to make a short bow and feel like I need the extra protection.  Shooting for 48 inches and 40lbs at 24 inches.

[PEARL DRUMS]

Your not adding any protection with any of those backings, only dead weight. If you've ever had a bow break in front of you, you quickly realize paper bags, burlap and drywall tape don't stand a chance. Your simply slowing your bow down adding any of them.

[tsimo25]

I have had that happen.  In my experience the explosion was more violent without the backing.  I fear the splinters flying around.

[Wolftrail]

Basically what Pearl says and the other guys, I had bows break violently and I mean explode..       where the limb almost took my face off..
Why because it was not properly tillered and over built.  In other words it was only 60% complete.
Go slow and do not pull beyond your desired draw weight.

[John Scifres]

Try it.  That's how we learn     Good luck.  Be careful.  Do you have a pulley tillering setup?

[John Scifres]

Try it.  That's how we learn     Good luck.  Be careful.  Do you have a pulley tillering setup?