Maximizing a self bows potential

[Michael Peschek]

Well its that time of year and I want to get my  setup ready within the next month. I will be shooting my osage self bow that is 55# @ my 28 1/4" draw. I want to maximize this setup to achieve the best penetration on elk.

First is the arrow setup. I am currently shooting a Sitka Spruce arrow  52-54#, 29.5" 60 grain internal footing,190 grain grizzly and a 10" feather taper. They weigh in at 605-610 grains and have around 21% foc. I had marginal penetration on the deer I shot at the end of last season and I believe they are a little weak, but I am unable to tune them right now.

What are your thoughts on arrow setups? I was thinking of using a stiffer wood shaft with more weight up front to improve FOC. I am also considering using a carbon arrow as I was very impressed with the increased penetration on a 3d deer with my recurve.

I have seen all the discussion on strings and I currently use a 12 strand b-50 string that weighs 135 grains without silencers. Would a more modern string work with this bow? The tips on the bow have purpleheart and horn overlays. I just don't want to risk blowing it up for whatever reason, but if it is safe I wouldn't mind the performance increase.

Sorry for the long post I just want the advice of you more experienced hunters/archers. Thanks!!

[Shaun]

My go to bow is a 59@28 osage self bow 69"ntn. I use a 14 strand modern material string - no tip overlays, no problem. I shoot TS-1+ or no stretch wheelie string (mystery material from the auction) on all my self bows. Elk arrows are 55/75 GT's cut 29.5 BOP with 125 adapters and 200grn Ace up front = 740grn. Deer and javie arrows are tapered 60/65 POC 29.5 BOP with 175 Ace up front = 620 grn.

Modern string materials and carbon arrows may not be primitive, but who cares what others think about your set up. Good Hunting!

[James Wrenn]

An 8 strand d-97 string will help the bow a lot.Skinny strings on selfbows and backed bows bring them to life.Can't help with the arrow for elk as I don't elk hunt but I have no trouble shooting carbons through deer very easy with a lot less bow weight than you are useing.