How & Why I Prefer a Cordovan Tab.

[Nala]

I shoot 3 under and like the Widow tabs too, but my favorite is the Eagles Flight tabs with the "O" ring for your finger.  That is really comfy on your finger.

I made myself a couple of the Widow Tabs out of Cordovan that I got from a member here a couple years ago and they work fine.  I have also made a few different tab designs to try too.  I will find some leather at a rummage sale or flea market and make a few tabs to try.

As for those Safari Tuff tabs, they really look great, but I can tell that I would HATE that string on my finger.  I like the velcro strap on the Widow tabs or the "O" ring style.  If there were a way to add an "O" ring to that Safari Tuff tab, I'd be there for sure.  No doubt about it.

Get you some cordovan and experiment.  You'll be amazed at how well you'll like them and how well they'll feel to you.  I know I was.
Besides, it's kinda entertaining to make your own gear.

Nalajr

[Paul_R]

Originally posted by Whitetailarcher:
How do you release from such a deep hook? Do you just pull through or just release?

Watching the video it looks like he partially "rolls out" of that deep hook in the draw. I have the same deep hook and roll out, works for me too. Don't think it's necessarily a hand size thing though, I have freakish big hands.

[LostNation_Larry]

I've grown to love the Neet Traditional tab in cordovan.  Very simple but very effective.  I've had some good success with the Bateman tab but have not used a BW tab yet.

[Ryan Sanpei]

Nala,

Yeah, I think my next step is to try and build my own.. May be fun to experiment as you mentioned.

[Steelhead]

I think this was a good tutorial on using a tab and sizing a tab.

My tabs look like Ryan's.
I use a different tab though.

I have used a few different cordovan tabs.
I settled on the Cavalier.It does have a finger spacer.Also a metal plate.The plate is nice.The string sits consistantly right in front of the plate top to bottom.It also draws down really tight on the middle finger for a tight fit.

I put most most of the pressure on the middle finger when drawing.It carries most of the load of the bows poundage.

I use a deep hook as well.I like the strength of the deep hook and its easier on the ligaments and tendons of the string hand.

Having the fingers exposed at the tips is the best way to have a precise anchor.Whether at the corner of the mouth or along a tooth.

"How do you release with such a deep hook.Do you just pull through or just release."

You should in my opinion pull through the release.It should be dynamic and not static.The string hand should almost form a J shape after the release as it goes back from your anchor.

I wanted to add one more thing that I think is beneficial.It has been for me.The string hand executes well when it is like it would be when just hanging down at your side when relaxing. When beginning your draw if your hand feels like this its a good way to start the draw as you start to engage the right back muscles to execute the draw to anchor.

[BigJim]

We are currently making and stocking the Safari Tuff tabs by Rod Jenkins. We may actually get them on our site one day too  
At this time they are only available in three under, but we are working on a split finger model as i type.

I am planning on selling squares of Cordovan also...if my supplier feels he can keep me stocked for both the tabs and the squares.

thanks,bigjim

[Paul_R]

Originally posted by BigJim:


I am planning on selling squares of Cordovan also...if my supplier feels he can keep me stocked for both the tabs and the squares.

thanks,bigjim

You'd be about the only one in the world doing that!    

[Ryan Sanpei]

That's great news!!! Thanks for keeping us posted Big Jim!    

[ron w]

My tabs look just like Ryan's, been using them for years. I also use the cordovan tab from Eagles Flight with good results. The only difference is I put a lanyard on mine so it's always around my wrist. Haven't lost one since I started doing that!

[Caughtandhobble]

Ryan, you sure make Traditional Archery look easy.  

I would like to put my name on the list for a couple squares of Cordovan.  

[stujay]

Ryan informative post.  

[Nala]

Originally posted by S2 Bowstrings:
Nala,

Yeah, I think my next step is to try and build my own.. May be fun to experiment as you mentioned.

Yeah...try it.  I guarantee you that you'll like it.  Trying to figure out little changes here and there, different materials to use for a palm "plate" and such...it's all good fun.  You also might find that you make one that you like better than all the others too.

I used to glue them together, but now since I live right outside of Houston there are boot repair shops all over the place and I figure they have to have a leather sewing capability so the next ones I make are going to be sewn all around like the BIG GUYS do it.  


One thing I am trying to figure out before I start back in making them is how I can make a palm plate that will let me attach an "O" ring for my finger and be able to replace it should it break or I want a different size.  I haven't came up with a way do attach them yet that I like.

Any suggestions on how?

Thanks all.

Nalajr