1st time now build - take down recurve - ADVICE

[Aaron16]

So I’m going to be building my first bow, I would like to build a take down recurve! Iv been doing research and I think I might use BP  for some supplies but need a little advice. I have a background in woodworking and I am trying to decide if I would save a ton of money by getting my woods at the saw mill and buying some instructions and the limb glue and laminate supplies from online. I don’t want to skimp and regret not getting a kit but I also don’t want to buy a several hundred dollar kit and then realize I could have spent way less and just gone my own route. Who here has used some of the first time kits? Is it worth it to just drop the money and get the kit with all the woods and everything in it?

[monterey]

Ok, this is just me, but I suggest getting a kit with instructions.  Also recommend that you check out kennyscustomarchery.com

He has all the stuff and is here on the forum and available for real time assistance.

[Aaron16]

I’ll check it out! Thanks for the tip!

[Crooked Stic]

For a first I would go longbow. If its got to be TD then Kenny has a good one and stacks already figured for the weight. Even tuts on form building. Or you might sweet talk him into doing the form for you. Whatever wood you use just be sure theMC is correct. Good luck.

[Forwardhandle]

I don't know about the kit the only kit I bought was the form kit with clamps and fire house  I think it was a good buy as far as not peace meal buying, but I would highly recommend going with Kenny's archery he has a in depth build along on his site and if you have any problems or question he is real good at explaining things in a hands on fashion  , I built my first bow with him and it came out great it's my current hunting bow , he has every thing A to Z except carbon..lol at reasonable prices , make sure you ask a lot of questions and you will be fine on your first build Good luck !

[Garman]

I am new at building as well, I concur Kenny is the way to go. He is very helpful and has most if not all you need.

[kennym]

Hi Aaron ,

First , you need a good form .  The bow will only be as good as the form.

IMO the router method with a template is the best way to build a form. It will be square face to side and that is essential , especially on a recurve. If the form isn’t right you are near guaranteed to have limb twist.

Now with all that said, the d/r longbows give up little to recurves these days. Plus the limbs are less prone to twist, you don’t have to use a stringer, no string slap on limb, and last but not least if you’re hunting, you can stick it down in your rubber boot til a critter shows up!! 

You can also put a recurve grip on them if you want that, which is what I shoot best...

As far as going to a sawmill, make sure the lumber is dry so you don’t have adhesion or air bubbles under glass.

Good luck and have fun!!