First let me say that I do a lot of reading on this site and am absorbing the wealth of knowledge that you all so willingly share. I hhave a ton more to learn but I want to say thank you, to all of you!
This might actually be my first post... About 18 months ago I picked up a used longbow off Archerytalk and began the traditional journey after about 25 years of shooting top end compounds with expensive sights, releases and other gadgets. Archery was fun with the compounds but traditional equipment has brought out a passion for archery and the outdoors that is on a level I've never felt before!
Fast forward to about 2 months ago, I ordered the Bingham R/D Longbow kit. I used their general directions but changed a lot, mostly because I initially screwed up the riser. In the end I built a R/D Longbow that I'm very impressed with. I've only put about 40 arrows thru it so far but it is fast and really smooth!
The bow (which I'm calling "First", creative, I know...) was supposed to be a 64" 50lb @28", but I shortened the riser to a 15" riser (feathered edge to feathered edge) and tapered the limbs differently than their plans, came out to 43lb @ 28". I also did a completely different grip that really feels good and center cut the shelf. Tomorrow am going to add a leather grip and try to dialing the brace height a bit more. I'll take some more pics when its all done but here are a couple from right after I finished spraying on the final coat of Polyurethane.
Oh, also the bow has maple limbs, bocote riser, bocote, limb tips & overlay, clear glass over the limbs.
Please let me know what you honestly think. Like I said earlier I've got a lot to learn so I appreciate any comments and criticism. Thanks!