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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: arachnid on July 30, 2017, 02:28:00 PM

Title: 2 questions ....
Post by: arachnid on July 30, 2017, 02:28:00 PM
Hi guys.

1) I`ve read that a heavy riser makes the bow more stable in the hand. Can you please explain how this works and how it effects shooting the bow?
Plus, how much is "properly" heavy and how much is too much?

2) Anyone used Zebrawood as a core (not as veneers)? How does it perform compared to maple (I really like maple cores on my bows).

Thanks
dor
Title: Re: 2 questions ....
Post by: Bvas on July 30, 2017, 04:22:00 PM
"Properly" heavy is an individual decision.
Lighter bows are quicker and easier to get on target. Heavier bows are easier to keep on target.
The reason is simple physics. The heavier an object is, more force or energy it takes to move it. So slight flinches or  twitches have less effect on a heavier bow.
Just my 2 cents   ;)
Title: Re: 2 questions ....
Post by: monterey on July 30, 2017, 06:47:00 PM
I built one with zebra through and through.  I see no advantage or disadvantage.

At this point I use maple and elm with excellent results.

I recently ordered maple cores from Kennym and I think they are the hardest maple I've ever worked with.
Title: Re: 2 questions ....
Post by: Bowjunkie on July 30, 2017, 07:38:00 PM
I too have made a few bows with all zebrawood. Zebrawood risers and all zebrawood lams, not veneers. I didn't test them, just shot them and they seemed fine to me.
Title: Re: 2 questions ....
Post by: kennym on July 30, 2017, 07:48:00 PM
Mike, I believe that hard maple cane from northern IA . I think that is what my kiln buddy said anyway....

I agree with Brad on bow weight. Whatever you like best is best IMO.

On Zebrawood, I've heard it is a fine core wood, but never used it for core. Take a lam and with a hand on both ends, bend it a bit and see if it twists . A lot of it does. I love zebra veneers but they don't matter much if they twist a bit if thin.
Title: Re: 2 questions ....
Post by: monterey on July 30, 2017, 09:18:00 PM
I never tried that trick.  I just trust the supplier.   :pray: