ready to start my first glass bow

[joe nichols]

I just received my  shipment from binghams.  Longbow limb kit. And riser block.  I'm quite excited to get started on the form   and start this thing.  I do have a question.  
On some Long bows, I see what appears to be accent laminations on the back of the riser.  Are these just visual or   are they necessary for strength?

[kennym]

With the glass all the way thru back of handle , they aren't real necessary , but easier to round the back for a comfy grip....

[joe nichols]

That's what I was hoping for.  I plan on doing it with some tooled veg tanned leather so that is great.  Thank you.

[Kopper1013]

I might also add, those accent strips help to cover splices between lams but again not important if you are going to cover with leather.