Author Topic: Sealskin arrow rest (Read 2300 times)

Benoli · « **on:** July 08, 2023, 04:06:16 PM »

Many moons ago I bought some sealskin arrow rests from, then, Alaska Bowhunting Supply and would like to find some more. Two strikes, Alaska Bowhunting Supply is no more and, supposedly there has been a change with the Sea Mammals Protection Act that prevents sales and or shipping to the USA. Does anyone know if sealskin rests are available via another source?

M60gunner · « **Reply #1 on:** July 08, 2023, 08:15:22 PM »

I remember those, one of my fellow archers really liked them. As for locating any might try a used clothing store. I have read about guys finding old coats to use.

4dogs · « **Reply #2 on:** July 09, 2023, 04:33:38 PM »

How much do you need Albert?

Gdpolk · « **Reply #3 on:** July 09, 2023, 10:12:25 PM »

I got something off eBay several years ago that was made with sealskin so I could have some for arrow rests. I gave a strip to several of my buddies and kept one small piece for me that was enough to redo my bow a few times. I figured it would last me a lifetime or so.

Terry Green · « **Reply #4 on:** July 10, 2023, 10:18:33 AM »

Is seal skin very textured when tanned?

I remember it was gritty on a live seal when my wife and I and our girls swam with a couple once on vacation....

There's a reason I'm asking about the texture.

Gdpolk · « **Reply #5 on:** July 10, 2023, 10:43:31 AM »

Quote from: Terry Green on July 10, 2023, 10:18:33 AM

Is seal skin very textured when tanned?

I remember it was gritty on a live seal when my wife and I and our girls swam with a couple once on vacation....

There's a reason I'm asking about the texture.

The skin itself is very similar to bison or elk leather. The hair is medium thick and moderately stiff much like a Labrador coat but shorter in length and has a very smooth fiber with a lot of natural oil. When put on an arrow rest it makes for a very slick shooting surface on the shelf but like anything else not smooth (such as Velcro or moleskin) it can collect grit and sand and dust. It’s among the quietest material that I’ve used and is extremely water resistant. I like it a lot for shelf material.

Tim Finley · « **Reply #6 on:** July 10, 2023, 11:04:32 AM »

Ive had some seal skin shelf material but preferred unborn calf hair you can buy hides off ebay .

Terry Green · « **Reply #7 on:** July 10, 2023, 01:57:31 PM »

Wudstix · « **Reply #8 on:** July 10, 2023, 02:39:56 PM »

I like mine with the fur on.

PASQUINELL · « **Reply #9 on:** July 10, 2023, 03:47:50 PM »

I'm stil kicking myself!!! I used to go to Anchorage at least once a year. I decided to go into a thrift store there and found a seal skin jacket in the racks. It was awesome and would have had 1k arrow rests for me and buddies. Didn't buy it that day and went back two days later... gone.

I really don't think anyone bought it. I made the mistake of telling the people my plans and how it was impossible to get or buy in the states. I shared it was going to be a gold mine for me... ugh

Terry Green · « **Reply #10 on:** July 10, 2023, 04:34:26 PM »

Quote from: PASQUINELL on July 10, 2023, 03:47:50 PM

I really don't think anyone bought it. I made the mistake of telling the people my plans and how it was impossible to get or buy in the states. I shared it was going to be a gold mine for me... ugh

We have a WINNER!!!!

Tradgang BoneHead of the Week....

And its only Monday!!!

PASQUINELL · « **Reply #11 on:** July 10, 2023, 05:22:54 PM »

Hahahaha! I graciously accept that dubious title!!

wood carver 2 · « **Reply #12 on:** July 10, 2023, 05:34:43 PM »

I don’t know what help this might be, but several years ago, I contacted a native crafter who made clothing and other items from seal skin. I asked them if they had offcuts that they would sell to me for making arrow rests. They offered to send me a one pound bag for $25. In fact, they sent me more than two pounds in several colors.
Unfortunately, I can’t remember who it was.
If you need some for a few bows, pm me. I still have some pieces.
Seal skin is my absolute favourite rest material.
Dave.

wood carver 2 · « **Reply #13 on:** July 10, 2023, 05:37:31 PM »

Terry, my seal skin pieces are all hair on, but the leather is thin and it feels like deer skin.
Dave.

Terry Green · « **Reply #14 on:** July 10, 2023, 06:26:27 PM »

No worries.... the pic shows me what I thought. Probably great material for sure.

evgb127 · « **Reply #15 on:** July 10, 2023, 06:42:12 PM »

I was just digging around one of my archery tackle boxes and found some. It’s great stuff.

Front:

Back:

PASQUINELL · « **Reply #16 on:** July 10, 2023, 08:07:09 PM »

Found mine too.

Tater John · « **Reply #17 on:** July 10, 2023, 08:14:57 PM »

It’s the best in my opinion

wood carver 2 · « **Reply #18 on:** July 10, 2023, 08:18:21 PM »

I went back in time and found the place where I purchased my sealskin remnants.
Google furcanada.com. It’s not listed, so I contacted them and asked if they would sell me some.
Having said this, it has been a long time and things might have changed. Their website has surely changed and so have the prices! Still, it’s worth asking.
Dave.

Chad Orde · « **Reply #19 on:** July 13, 2023, 02:02:17 AM »

I live in SE Alaska now and can probably get some scrap pieces from the local natives. As long as it’s legal to send it out I’ll check.


LEFT HAND BOWS CLASSIFIEDS	TRAD GANG CLASSIFIEDS ACCESS	RIGHT HAND BOWS CLASSIFIEDS

News:

Author Topic: Sealskin arrow rest (Read 2300 times)

Users currently browsing this topic: