Osage selfbow, need the gangs advice

[Jrunner]

 

I took a break from making hinged trilams and decided to try an osage stave with a few curves.  I am at 50 @ 27 and just want a decent hunting weight.  I am tempted to stop but I do see the tips are a little stiff.  What do the pros think?

Thanks!

[Pat B]

Looks a little hingey about 8" from the right fade. Will you get a pic of you holding at full draw? Also show back and unbraced side profile.

[Bowjunkie]

I disagree with Pat. Initially, I thought I saw what he did, but upon closer inspection, I think it's the background tricking the eye with those dots, lines, and shadows.

I think it looks pretty good, but like he said, I don't like to make a judgement until I see them unstrung along with the front profile.

[PEARL DRUMS]

Id say just past the fades could bend more on both sides, I to would like to see more pics.

[Jrunner]

 
 

Here are a few more pics.  When I pulled the bow back it seemed heavy and I kept hearing small cracking sounds.  I checked it on the tree and it was stiff.  Never had that happen before.  Anyway now I have a few vertical cracks in the wood.  What are your recommendations.

[Jrunner]

I added a few photos.  Was scared to draw any further due to cracking sound.  Will a strip of rawhide backing on that spot be enough?

[PEARL DRUMS]

Your wood isn't dry enough. Those checks happen when that is the case. Your bottom limb needs to move more past the fades 12".

[Pat B]

Super glue those checks. If the limb is thicker there at the hoop te doo it might have caused twisting leading to the checks.