splinter on Osage longbow

[razorsharptokill]

Spotted a small splinter lifting about 1 foot from the bottom limb tip. It is very slight at this point. It is un noticeable when unbraced. I had planned on using this bow next month in Wyoming as my primary but I think I will switch to my Gamemaster II as a precaution. Humidity is almost nothing there.

I think a wrap and a snake skin or rawhide covering will save it. I may reduce the draw weight also. It's 64lbs at 27 now.

Thoughts?

[Pat B]

  Jim, splinters on the back of a wood bow isn't good. I would brace the bow, fill the crack with super glue and unbrace it to close the crack. Put a clamp on it also but use clear food wrap over the crack so you don't glue the clamp to the bow. Don't ask how I know that.     Also put a tight thread wrap over the crack and set that in glue. A rawhide backing wouldn't be a bad idea but I wouldn't waste a snake skin on it. They are strictly decorative.   

[KenH]

Pat's got the right of it.  Fill with glue, unbrace, wrap with carpet thread.  Wrap the same locale on the other limb just because.  Don't waste a skin on backing.  If you want to back, use silk ribbon or even heavy brown paper bag to keep down the mass of the bow.

At this stage, reducing the draw weight isn't going to help any; I'd leave it alone. 

 Humidity or lack of it isn't going to help or hinder the situation. I wouldn't necessarily switch bows, but since you've got more than one, take this one and a backup.

[Pat B]

Always have a back up bow(or 2) that you are very familiar with and shoot it before you leave to be sure. Remember Mr. Murphy is out there just waiting for you to show up. 

[razorsharptokill]

Definitely have a back up!