.030 Glass Max weight

[Forwardhandle]

The bow Im currently working on FHLB using .030 glass over stabil-kore and Im shooting for 45 lb ,so Im not worried about over stressing the glass but I was wondering for you guys that have used .030 glass what you think the max durable draw weight can be using it with or with out stabil-kore ?

[C. Johnson]

Funny you should mention this.....

I use .030" glass for kid's bows and, generally, anything I build under 30 pounds draw.  I just put together my short pattern recurve #3 and I'm thinking this one is going to come in closer to 40#.  I used a strip of Stabilcore in it as well.

I think it will be ok.  There seem to be a lot of competing theories about the percentage of glass in the total stack.  Truthfully, I think longbows are less sensitive than recurves to that percentage.  I think the only bad thing which is likely to happen is that the bow might take a bit of set.  The potential upside is it may be a little faster due to reduced limb mass.

My personal criteria for determining thickness of glass is based on the desired weight.

I use .030" for anything 30# or less.  .040" for 31-50ish pounds, and .050" for anything above that. 

[Forwardhandle]

Thanks Craig I guess I should have ask it this way I'm wondering if when using the stabil-kore directly under clear .030 if it does become a stronger composite for the back and belly where draw weight with in reason would be a non issue ? I'm not worried about the current bow but have a 68 D/R long bow that will probably come in 52-53 lb using the same , I know some times you just have to make the darn thing to find out but just trying to avoid making junk...lol

[Crooked Stic]

I am thinking stable core is woven glass so you should be fine.

[Forwardhandle]

Ok good should have this one glued up next couple weeks !

[Crooked Stic]

I think where you may get in trouble would be .040 front and .030 belly.

[BMorv]

Ritchie, we are going to have to change your name to "Clearglass"

[Forwardhandle]

Lol I like unstabil-kore better 😊