Jesse's first bow attempt ???

[Slasher]

Fellas My son needs some help...
 
Hi, My name is Jesse and I'm making  my first bow!!!!!!
It is red oak, 55 in. 1 1/2 in. at the fades tapering to 1/2 in. nocks, with a 6 in. handle.

Can you help me? My dad is concerned about one of the limbs. What should we do with the limb that has growth ring runout.
 
 

[walkabout]

if that is the back of the limb, it should be ok with a backing of some sort, hickory would be best but using rawhide or even burlap or brown paper will be alright as long as the runoffs arent extending deeply into the limb. it helps too that those are close to the tips and not halfway down the limb, there is way less force out there than closer to the handle. good luck and keep us posted.

[Pat B]

Jesse, I don't build many board bows but if the runoffs are not too drastic you can add a simple backing of brown grocery bag paper, linen or silk cloth. Any of these are easy to do with carpenters glue(TiteBond or Elmer's). A backing is good insurance to help prevent breakage. If the run offs are too drastic these backing materials won't keep the bow from breaking.
  Check out George Tsoukalas' website. It has all the info you need to build a board bow from selecting the correct board through the tillering process and the finish work at the end.
  Keep us posted on your progress and ask all the questions you may have. Posting pics of your progress or problems helps us help you.
  Good luck on your first bow. Be patient and don't get in a rush. If you can't concentrate on your work, put it down and come back when you really feel like building a bow. We have all been through what you are experiencing now. Most of all, HAVE FUN! That's what it is all about!!!

[Osagetree]

Probably could go with a little bit shorter handle. 5" including the fades might be better, 3" for the handle and with 1" fades. Just a suggestion as I dont build board bows.
Good to see a young fella like Jesse doing something besides playing video games! Nothing wrong with the v-games, it's just not good all the time. Got to get out and into the woods or workshop.
Jesse, have your Dad PM me your address; I have something I can send that should really help you out!
Don't give up even if that one breaks! We all break'm now and then!!!!!