A bow`s back and belly.

[Buemaker]

I don`t know if it is appropriate to post such a subject here, but here it goes. If it gets pulled that is OK. On a Norwegian forum similar to Trad Gang there is now a discussion going on about why we call it a bow`s belly and a bow`s back. Does anyone have an idea why we call it as such.  Bue--.

[Osagetree]

Because that is the way it has always been?

[jchunt4ever]

Well I don't know of any historical fact, but if you think about it in comparison to a human body, it makes perfect sense. The "belly" portion of the bow bends in the direction it is facing, just as when you bend down to tie your shoes. Likewise, the "back" of the bow bends in the opposite direction it is facing, just like your back. That's my theory, and my theory only, and as I stated above I don't have any facts or documented proof that this is why.

[ChuckC]

well, seems simple enough.  you put backing on the far side of the bow, hence the term  "back".
    At least it ....sounds  good....

I think it may have something to do with how jchunt describes it.  When you hold it (the bow), ready to shoot, the far side is the back side.  Also, when a person bends, normally his back bends in an arc, in a certain direction. His belly is the side opposite the back and it bends too.  Do toe touches and you can see what I mean.

 This sounds fun.  Any more words of wit ?
ChuckC

[Flatshooter]

Maybe because the belly of the bow faces your belly and the back is the opposite side or the back of the belly....Oh, I don't know.