Deer sinew for Osage self bow.

[jmar595]

How much do you typically need for this? I want to back this before OJAM so I can put snakeskin and a beavertail grip there.

[scrub-buster]

More than you think it would take.  I don't have an exact answer but I always use more than I expect to.

[mikkekeswick]

It all depends on what sort of bow you are making but plan on 60 grams minimum and more like 80 grams.

[John Scifres]

Assume at least 8 rear leg tendons.  I'd process more like 12.

[mwosborn]

The few that I have done, I used just over 1 oz per limb.  Measuring ahead of time is not a bad idea so that you get equal amounts on each limb.

[Bowjunkie]

Yeah, I like to process at least 12 tendons for the osage bows I usually work on. They're not very wide either.

[PEARL DRUMS]

I will process 12 back straps for most 2 1/2-3 layer jobs. I don't always us it all. But I don't want to run out mid stream, not good. I'm super picky about my sinew, so 12 back straps is equal to 8 by the time I nit pick them.

[Se1F6ow27]

Just put the same amount on each side. And dont be afraid to put more than you think. If youre getting your deer sinew from oklahoma like me, count on breaking up a lot. We got a lot of small deer here.

[jmar595]

Thanks for the good information. I am going to have to order some, just want to make sure I get enough. Also where can I find a good tutorial for backing the bow?

[Bowjunkie]

Just FYI, make contact with a local deer processor and tell him what you're up to. Ask him to save deer legs for you. They just saw them off at the knees and throw them away. I did so just prior to rifle season and he saved a heaped wheel barrow for me in less than a week... must have been over 50 legs in there. Free.

[jmar595]

Good info Bowjunkie! Will see if I can find some next season.

[jmar595]

How long does this take to dry before you can string it and bend it? Also, how long before I can apply snakeskin on top? I hope to have the sinew ready for OJAM but don't think I will get it on until Friday and OKAM is next Thursday. Am I cutting it too close on this?

[PEARL DRUMS]

If your humidity is under 50%, 2-3 weeks is plenty. Add skins anytime after that. Having air circulate over the bow as it dries helps immensely.

[Bowjunkie]

Less than a week? No way. I let my sinew dry for weeks, over a month isn't uncommon... especially with snakeskin on it, since they hold moisture in... depends on the relative humidity. I shoot it in, and then if everything is fine, apply the finish.

Got a moisture meter?

[jmar595]

When you measure out the sinew, is this a wet weight or dry??

[Pat B]

Dry