Cherry Fail

[LaBill67]

Well my latest attempt at bowyering was a failure. It began as a 3/4" cherry flat bow 72" for end to end. The handle was 9" and then tapered to 1/2" wide at the tips. The belly tapered from 3/4' at the fade to 1/2" at the tip. Tillereing was going good until I reached full brace and then it developed a significant twist.  While trying to work out the twist the bow failed about 8" from the tip. I had it pulling 42#s at 19" of draw.  Looking at the failed pieces I noticed the wood failed perfectly along the line of the grain. The bow was backed with two layers of fiber tape with linen on top of that. Life is full of ups and downs.

[Pat B]

If it twisted as you were drawing that means the thickness was uneven from side to side.
 Will you post pics so we can do an autopsy?

[LaBill67]

Here are the photos for the autopsy. Let me know what yall think
 

[LaBill67]

Well I don't know what happened. I'll try again

[LaBill67]

Ok, I think that'll work now. Again after the autopsy is complete let me know what you think.  http://imgur.com/a/IdxH2

[LaBill67]

What think you experienced bowyers about this idea.  Cut both limbs down to 24 inches and shorten the handle to 6-7 inches and make this into a light weight bow for a grandson?

[Roy from Pa]

Looks like severe grain run out where it broke. Cherry isn't the best choice of wood for a bow.

[Pat B]

That's exactly what it is, severe grain run out. sound wood breaks along the grain.