Help

[Jessebeaux]

Ok guys,

Ive built my first Osage self bow and so far I'm really happy with it! I'm not going to cut in a shelf but instead to the more traditional floppy leather rest (pictured) However, I'm confused on how to tuning/arrow flight/alignment will work if I don't have a center shot that a self provides? Won't my arrow just fly way left?

Lastly, please note the cracks I have in bow....? Some have said it's normal others have said the bow won't last. What's your thoughts?

[Jessebeaux]

Another pic

[Jessebeaux]

Arrow example

[EvilDogBeast]

Not sure about the cracks, but as far as arrows go a properly spined arrow will bend around the handle and straighten itself out after it clears the bow due to the archers paradox.  Here is a fun little video explaining it all that includes a little shooting with Byron Ferguson.  His bow does have a shelf but the principle remains the same.



Edit: For clarity

[Jessebeaux]

Thanks! Makes sense!

[Pat B]

You will have to have arrows spined to your selfbow. Generally the arrow will be about 10# lighter spine than the draw weight then fine tune with arrow length and tip weight.

[Al Dean]

Video fails to mention that what initiates the paradox is the string coming off your fingers and going away from center line of bow.  The string does not stay centered on bow during shot.

[Forwardhandle]

It can be a pain sometimes for me working up arrows for self bows , I spent about 3 week ends bare shafting arrows last year on a new osage self bow but I usaly try a assortment of different spine & length arrows tell I get them bare shaft tuned and I don't have a spine tester so every arrow in the same lot has to be tested but when they fly good bare shaft, and ones you put the fletchings on they fly like darts to the target I always mark the best for hunting !