Lets talk forgiving bow measurements

[knobbymag]

I'm curious what the most forgiving location of the shelf is. What I'm looking for is something like the shelf is 1 1/2" above center measurement on  my "WHOMEVER MADE IT" bow and it hits exactly where I point it; or something like that. Also does the string line up straight down the center of the grip or is it to the left or right of center. Thanks for any input.

[kennym]

I make mine with shelf 1" above center which is also the deepest part of grip.Close to my hand

Cut to center or just past, I want the arrow to have to flex a bit the same way to get off the bow. This way they are more consistent coming off than a true center shot. JMHO (no science here)

And they do shoot EXACTLY where I point em, but sometimes I don't get em pointed at where I wanna hit! LOL  

Hill longbows are 1&1/2" below center.  If you heal the bow they work fine, if you like to bridge up on the grip, 1&1/4" below the arrow rest with a locator grip may be better.  Bows that are cut to center or not depends on you, most will say that the Hill style longbow shoots more where you are looking than any bow design.

[Bjorn]

The location of the shelf is either: asymmetric-unequal length; or symmetric-equal length, generally the shelf is 1.5" above center and the reason it is done that way is so it is balanced in the hand when you carry it. I don't think it has an effect on forgiveness. Forgiveness generally is attributed to riser shape  and longer limb for smooth pull. And yes, most will agree the Hill style bow is a great pointing bow.

[knobbymag]

Thanks for the input. I'm researching what makes a bow really shootable. I've made a bow and use it but, there are some things that it just doesn't have. I plan on making more and when a man is making a "custom" bow for himself he needs to have a good idea of what makes specific attributes.