What tools and methods do you use to when filing string grooves in a glass bow to make sure that the angles are the same and they line up. I am having trouble. I use a round chain saw file and cannot fet the angles to be the same on each side.
Hi Matt, can't answer your question, but we'll need to get together and talk and/or shoot..Good Luck, though someone will have the answer, shortly.
Use a tape measure and mark two lines a quarter inch apart on each side of the limb. So you will have two lines a quarter inch apart on each side of the limb. Measure down from the top of the limb, this is kind of a personal thing, depending on how big you want your tips. On my last bow I measured one inch down and marked a line and then put another line at an inch and a quarter the same on the other side. File at an angle b/w the two lines and you should be the same on each side. Make sure you don't put the grooves in backwards. BEEN THERE. I hope this makes sense. Once I have the grooves close I string up the bow and check to see if they are pulling the same. If not I take off a little at a time until they are pulling straight(GO SLOW HERE!!!). Once you get them pulling even take 220grit sandpaper and smooth out the sharp edges, so it won't cut your string. I measure down an inch because it gives you some wiggle room when you do your final sanding of the tips.
This method was shown to me by a bowyer and it has worked out for me. Maybe someone that is really good at this has a better method. Forgot to mention is the way I do it for a longbow. If your doing a recurve I can't help you on that one. Good luck.
Use a combination square, mark a straight line across the back of the top and bottom limbs about 1" to 1 1/4", then down both sides of the limbs now take your combination square and use the 45Deg. angle and mark lines on the belly side of the limbs, they will come out perfect every time, be it a Long Bow or recurve. Hope this helps you....ONE SHOT... :D :D :D :) :) :)
Billy, when's the next time you're in town?
Good, clear info...
I'll be in Memorial Day weekend.
Use a small tiangular file to start so it doesnt wander, then go to a round file.
I use a hack saw and cut shallow kerfs where the grooves are going to be. I only go about the depth of the teeth of the blade. Then I can eye ball the kerfs to see if they line up with each other. Usually one is a little higher then the other or the angle is a little different. When I start filing with the chain saw file I adjust my groove as I file deeper. Maybe put a little upward pressure as I file one side and a little downward pressure when I do the other side. Go slow and check often as you progress.
Chad