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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: Thumper Dunker on July 17, 2021, 12:54:30 AM

Title: Red oak.
Post by: Thumper Dunker on July 17, 2021, 12:54:30 AM

I know that red oak is ok. If a red oak has a hickory or maple backing would it be better than just ok ? as in speed ect. I know its not going to be like a recurve or anything like that. Found a real nice strait  grained red oak board supper strait grain.

Title: Re: Red oak.
Post by: Pat B on July 17, 2021, 07:51:39 AM

Yes, adding a hickory backing to a red oak board will make a pretty good bow. Add 3" to 4" of reflex at glue up time.

Title: Re: Red oak.
Post by: Longcruise on July 17, 2021, 01:20:55 PM

Hey,  Pat, how thick would you go with the hickory?

Title: Re: Red oak.
Post by: Pat B on July 17, 2021, 01:44:07 PM

When I cut hickory for backing strips I cut it at about 3/16" and by the time both sides are sanded smooth the backing strip comes out about 1/8" thick or slightly less. I think this is a good thickness for most wood bow backing strips.

Title: Re: Red oak.
Post by: Longcruise on July 17, 2021, 02:04:48 PM

 :thumbsup:

Title: Re: Red oak.
Post by: George Tsoukalas on July 17, 2021, 03:35:27 PM

It all depends on the grain on whether it even needs  a backing.
i've made many selfbows from red oak boards.

 Jawge

Title: Re: Red oak.
Post by: Thumper Dunker on July 17, 2021, 05:16:51 PM

Thanks