Limb Tip Reinforcement

[Anonym]

Long time lurker, first post...

Guys, I'm repairing a damaged limb for a bow.  The tip was broken and I'm going to cut it down and reshape.  My question is reinforcing the tip to use fast-flight or comparable string material.

Most that you see use a layer of micarta or phenolic material with an overlay of hardwood to stand up to the faster materials, although I've seen some done with just hardwood reinforcement.  Question is, is the micarta/phenolic necessary for tip reinforcement, or is it more for the look and consistency?

Thanks,
Anonym

[Pat B]

Micarta/phenolic is not necessary. I believe any good solid hardwood, antler or bone will also work. I do not use FF strings but from what I have heard these will work fine.

[talkingcabbage]

Not to hijack the thread, but why would you need to reinforce the tips for fast-flight?  I've never used it before.  I'm more of a B-50 kind or guy.

[Pat B]

Fast flight is a hard,non-stretch string material and can be abrasive to the bow tip. Also the overlays protect against the shock of a non-stretch string.
  I also prefer B-50. The few FPS extra aren't worth the extra effort or possible bow damage that can result from a non-stretch string.

[Anonym]

I agree, I love the B-50 for my recurve, but this is actually for the recurve limb of an Oneida compound bow.  The original limb was on one of the more economical versions and they used a plastic limb tip "cap" instead of doing it right to keep production costs down.  They are labeled as a "Dacron Only" limb due to the tip and they are prone to breaking since it's been a while since they made them.  Just looking to keep these old limbs in service and actually up to their full potential.

Figured it's not exactly traditional, but close enough that you guys would know the correct answer.

As far as bone-tip overlays go, is there any special preparation needed before using the bone?  I'm assuming it has to be sufficiently dry before using.  Any tips on doing this?

Thanks,
anonym

[Pat B]

You will want bone that is dry and absent of grease and oil. You can buy dog bones that should fit the bill or find bone that has been in the weather for a while.

[Anonym]

Excellent.  Thank you for the info!  Looks like I've got plenty to learn from you guys here.  Been wanting to dabble in making traditional equipment, so I may have many more questions in the near future!

[JRY309]

Dan Quillian would just use a hardwood overlay and he shot 450+ on his bows.I shoot D97 on my Longhunter's and they just have a hardwood overlay.

[Pat B]

I have seen osage selfbow that used FF strings and no overlays.

[Anonym]

I'm trying a Red Elm reinforcement.  Got the overlay glued on the first limb, just need to start shaping to see how it turns out!  Wish me luck.  This is going to be a slow process since my kids take up most of my time at home...

[ChristopherO]

I have a friend who uses one of those bows for his fish shooting bow. He likes it real well for that application.