Adding weight to a 1pc R/D longbow handle?

[shreffler]

I’ve been talking about it for 4 years but I’m finally building my first laminated bow - specifically, a Kenny M design with his materials.

Over the years I’ve found that a heavy riser makes a big difference in accuracy for me, and I currently shoot a Hoyt Satori.

Does anyone know of a good way to add some weight or heft to the riser of a one piece bow? I’m using walnut for the riser, I tried to pick something a little heavier. Tossed around the idea of putting a threaded stud in the front for a stabilizer or drilling a hole in the side of the riser and putting a weight in it, but there’s a 100% chance I’d ruin it trying to do either of those 

Any ideas are appreciated!

Alex

[Roy from Pa]

IPE is very heavy wood.

[Tim Finley]

I wouldn't use walnut in anything much over 40#s its not very strong for a riser.

[KenH]

You want heavy, get a piece of Lignum Vitae for the riser -- one of, if not the densest woods -- sinks in water...

[monterey]

Is lignum vitae available anywhere?

You could drill holes in the back of the riser  and put some lead muzzle loader balls in bedded in epoxy.  If you want to try that, let me know.  I can send you some if you want to try it.  I have .45, .50 and .54 available.

I agree on the walnut as a poor choice for a riser.  Some good alternate choices
Would be bocote or wenge.

[monterey]

Here's a look at some bocote.  Got this piece from kennym

[Wolftrail]

How about Osage, Hickory, Ash or White Oak.

[Todd Cook]

I agree with Roy about the Ipe. I don't know why more people dont use it in glass bows. Its about as strong and dense as anything you'll find.

[Crittergetter]

Walnut is Pretty light. If your heart is set on the walnut send it to Big Jim and have him stabilize it for you. The last walnut riser block I sent him came back a full lb heavier!!

[KenH]

I just saw a number of listing on EBay for "Lignum Vitae Lumber" ...

[monterey]

I wonder if it's the real McCoy.  Here's what the wood database says about. It.

"Sustainability: This wood species is in CITES Appendix II, and is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered because populations are severely reduced and exploitation for both its wood and resin extracts have continued for hundreds of years."

[arachnid]

Kagen McCabe fro Omega longbows uses ipe for his risers. Seems to be working well.

[shreffler]

Great suggestions all - thanks! I will either use a different riser material like ipe or stabilize the walnut.