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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: 1oldbowguy on December 17, 2015, 08:10:00 PM

Title: Red Oak board
Post by: 1oldbowguy on December 17, 2015, 08:10:00 PM

I have gotten a nice piece of Red Oak board.  It is 8’ long and 1 ½” wide and ¾” thick with very nice grain orientation.  My question is this.  Can I make an English style long bow out of this board?  I was looking at something around 72” or so.  If so any thought on the layout of the bow.  Been away for a while and wish to get started back in the Traditional bow world.  Thanks for any help.       ;)

Title: Re: Red Oak board
Post by: Pat B on December 17, 2015, 11:22:00 PM

Red oak would not be a good candidate for an ELB. It has weak compression and will likely take set and maybe fret with a rounded belly. You could build an Eastern Woodland style bow. It has a rectangular cross section and bends through the handle.

Title: Re: Red Oak board
Post by: mikkekeswick on December 18, 2015, 03:27:00 AM

No just as Pat said - it just won't handle the design. Flat belly will be fine though.

Title: Re: Red Oak board
Post by: 1oldbowguy on December 18, 2015, 08:13:00 AM

Thanks for the info, flat bow it is.   ;)

Title: Re: Red Oak board
Post by: George Tsoukalas on December 18, 2015, 09:08:00 AM

There's info on my site including a buildalong for a bend in the handle bow with no glued on handle.
If you change  the width to 1 3/8" the potential  is there for  45-50# provided you tiller well.
Jawge
 http://traditionalarchery101.com/

Title: Re: Red Oak board
Post by: 1oldbowguy on December 18, 2015, 01:02:00 PM

Thanks George, just went to your site and have marked it.  I think I will try both as I have gotten another board.  Again, thanks to all for your help.