Oak or hickory boards are good to use for homemade bows.
Making your own bow is not only satisfying and economical, but it also helps you to have a better understanding of archery. Before selecting a board to use in creating your own bow, study plans and diagrams of bows to familiarize yourself with their construction and parts and how everything works together. Next, gather the tools and equipment needed and start building.
Instructions
1. Measure the board for the center mark. Start with tip to tip, then measure the center width. Mark this spot with a cross. From the center, measure out 5 inches on each side for a 10-inch section in the middle. This is where the handle will be set later.
2. Mark off 15 inches on both ends. On each of the ends, measure off a half-inch section on the center mark. Draw a diagonal line from both sides of the half-inch mark, to the edge where the 15-inch mark is located. Using a hacksaw or a Stanley Shurform rasp, begin trimming down the wood on each side until you read the drawn lines. Do this on both sides to form the tapered ends. Round and smooth the edges.
3. Choose if you want to add a riser, a short piece of wood glued and fitted to the middle section, for a stronger bow. Also, adding a backing such as drywall tape is another way to keep the bow from breaking or splintering. These steps are optional.
4. Cut notches on each tapered end 1 inch in from the tip. Make sure to cut the notch at a diagonal so the string will stay secure. Sand the entire bow and stain it if desired.
5. Secure the string to one end and gently bend the bow until you can secure the other end of the string. Finally add a leather wrapping to the handle for comfort and it's done.
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