I've got a hickory board bow about complete but have been wondering if I'll need a backing because I have a few minor runoff in the grain.
(http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w217/tennjed9/IMG_1042.jpg)
(http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w217/tennjed9/IMG_1043.jpg)
(http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w217/tennjed9/IMG_1045.jpg)
Anything over 45-50# I like to back my BOARD bows.
If using a stave I dont worry as much.
The runout on that board is very minimal for Hickory. Nice piece.
What does the grain along the side look like. That also has to be considered.
Pat, what am I looking for on the side? I don't have any pics of the side, but I did look at it. It appears that the runoffs on the belly come down through the side of the bow.
Ideally you want the rings running down the sides also. Violations along the side can cause troubles too just like runoffs on the back.
Well, shoot. I believe that I have a violation on the side. Is there anything I can do about that?
Hickory is mean stuff. If the angle of the run up's or out's isn't too severe you can probaby keep going. The few pics I see dont look bad. Looks pretty thin already?
I don't think its too thin, but it might be. I put it on the tree and it was 55 @ 25. I'm shooting for 50-55 @ 28. It's a pyramid-type bow. Maybe it is too thin. Pearly now you got me worried.
Hickory is some pretty tough stuff. I'd say that one will be fine but it is hard to say without seeing the side too like Pat said. Looks like a bias-ringed board and those type can have some waviness and still be fine. Wavy rings on quartesawn lumber is not good.
Dont listen to me Nathan, Im a rambler. Its just a pic and they can be deceiving. If it scales out right on, then your good man! Plan on losing about 4-5#'s from shoot-in and sanding. Just something to think about as you finish her off.
LOL. Pearly, you're a wise rambler from what I've read over the course of my bow making experience. I value your opinion. Should have this bow done today. I'll have some pics soon.
Count the run offs per limb. Look at the sides. More that 2 means back it for a 50-55# bow. My site has info. Jawge
http://georgeandjoni.home.comcast.net/~georgeandjoni/