First Board Bow

[mastin03]

Fourth try at a bow, and i think im close this time.  tiller isnt perfect, but its close.  Little bit of handshock while shooting which i assume can be attributed to the top limb being a little bit behind? overall im pretty happy.  Let me know what you think. Comments AND criticisms are welcomed and appreciated

Hickory Board bow, 68"NTN 45#@28".  1.5" wide at fades, nearly constant to mid-limb then tapering to 1/2" nocks.  top limb lags about 3/4" at full draw.  10" riser, fade to fade.

 

Should I go back and bring the top limb around, or be happy with the way it is??

Riser
 

one more
 

Thanks in advance for any advice anyone has.  Im already tryin to decide what my next one is going to be...this bow building stuff is addicting!!

[KILLER B]

I realy like the handle.  If you get it bending a little better near the fade on top it might come around a little closer.  But if your happy thats all that realy counts.

[Pat B]

Tiller looks good. I would leave it as it is and start on the next one. Hand shock can come from excessive tip weight or one limb recovering quicker that the other. I'd bet it is tip weight.      Pat

[mastin03]

thanks guys, and i would prolly have to agree with you pat, the tips are only 1/2" wide, but i think they're a little thicker than what they really need to be....oh well, improvements for next time around!

[Pat B]

I usually leave tips thicker and reduce the width. Wood is a lot stronger in thickness.  Lay a 2x4 flat with the ends on blocks and press in the middle. now lay it on edge and do the same. It won't bend at all.By leaving them somewhat thick and reducing the width you can reduce the physical weight without loosing the strength. Pat

[mastin03]

how narrow do you usually go on your nocks?  I was just a little apprehensive to get to small.  i assume 3/8" is still plenty wide enough?  do you go smaller than that even?

[Pat B]

I usually go about 3/8" but I know others that go smaller. The tips are stronger than you think they are.    Pat

[bjansen]

Great looking bow...nice finish sanding...the finish looks very smooth in the pic.  

Nice job!!!!

[mastin03]

Thanks for the info pat...ill have to play around with the tips a little bit on the next one.

Bjansen, thanks for the comment, for as much elbow grease as went into this thing sanding it oughtta be smooth  

[dc51]

Nice looking bow.
What is the wood combo on the rizer?

Don

[mastin03]

don, riser is altenating poplar and cedar

[razorback]

looks real good. have to get started on my next board bow. First went bang so I have 2 in the hand before I need to look that good