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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: UnderControl16 on April 22, 2009, 08:53:00 PM

Title: handle how?
Post by: UnderControl16 on April 22, 2009, 08:53:00 PM

Ok so simple question but i'm fairly sure the answer will not be simple....

How do you make a handle? Like how do you shape them?

Title: Re: handle how?
Post by: scrub-buster on April 22, 2009, 09:01:00 PM

I just shaped the handle on my first selfbow.  I used a file that is rounded on one side.  I just kept filing it down until it felt comfortable in my hand.  A lot of people wrap the handle in leather.  I have not tried this yet, but I am sure someone can give you some tips.

Title: Re: handle how?
Post by: Pat B on April 23, 2009, 12:12:00 AM

When setting up a handle I first mark the center of the bow stave(tip to tip). From there mark out 2" on either side for the handle and another 2" out for the fades, the transition between the handle and limbs.
   I shape my handles in a bulbous style. Handle styles are quite personal! Here are pics of naked with leather filler and covered with rattan.
 (http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/handles002.jpg)
 (http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y199/PatBNC/handles003.jpg)

Title: Re: handle how?
Post by: shamus on April 24, 2009, 07:17:00 AM

my dimensions for a flatbow handle:  http://analogperiphery.blogspot.com/2007/03/selfbow-handle-dimensions.html

hope that helps