3-fingers under shelf cut

[PaulRoberts]

Where is the shelf cut in relation to the handle center (balance/grip point) on a 3-fingers under bow? How high up? Or maybe a better question: How different is it from a split finger shelf?

[tenbrook]

its not the shelf that is different but the tiller.

You want the distance from the string to the belly of the bow to be the same on the top and bottom limb when tillering for 3-under.  With split finger you want the top limb to have a 1/8" more distance (some people call this 1/8" positive tiller).  I measure at the furthest point.

Hope the helps!

Tenbrook

[PaulRoberts]

Thanks, Tenbrook.

The reason I ask is I have an R/D longbow that appears odd in design -abnormally asymmetrical.

The limbs have a 3/16" negative tiller, measured at the furthest points, pretty much at the end of the fades. The bow is 62" ntn, with a 19" handle, fade to fade. The shelf is cut 2" above handle center, and balance point.

Why would the bowyer have done this?

[AkDan]

to compensate for a style of grip (hand pressure) would be my guess.

[PaulRoberts]

Thanks Dan.