Roughed out first bow but need input on backing

[NYArrow]

Folks,

  So after much reading, material gathering and shop building I started my first board bow this week. The plan was a hickory board bow with a possible backing. After layout I decided to go unbacked. So I roughed it all out and have the bow pretty well floor tillered now. Problem is my side tapers are much narrower than I had hoped. (started at a very conservative 2 1/4 but ran into a problem with one limb and had to cut down even more. Now I'm about 1 3/8" wide at the fades tapering to a 3/4 nock. The belly/back taper is 5/8 to 1/2. Overall length of 67" and shooting for a 55/60lb bow. Given this info will these dimensions hold up or would now be a good time to back?

[No-sage]

I don't think you'll get your desired draw weight with those dimensions and have a bow that will shoot to your liking.  Your bow will have excessive set at those dimensions, even with a backing.

I think a new plan is in order to fit your circumstances.  Maybe shoot for 40 to 45 lbs or shorten the length and make a kids bow.  You'll still get the bowbuilding experience to bring into the next one, and you'll make a kid very happy.

[PEARL DRUMS]

Glue 4" of reflex in with a backer and you will be fine, in my opinion. I have a 64" 1.5" wide HBH that is 27# @ 29. It shoots hard.

[PEARL DRUMS]

I meant 57# @ 29"...oops! Hickory will take a beating like you wouldnt believe. Back it with hickory about .125" thick or less.

[NYArrow]

Thanks for the help! Given this was my first bow and I'm sure there are other tillering errors I will likely turn this into a kids bow. (My son has helped me all along so he may be the new rightful owner) This will give me a bit more experience when I start the next one for me.

[PEARL DRUMS]

Post a full draw pic before you change your intentions, you may be suprised how easliy it can remain your intended bow.