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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: Buggs on June 29, 2022, 11:38:52 AM

Title: Milling Ideas?
Post by: Buggs on June 29, 2022, 11:38:52 AM
I always dread milling Bamboo. I do it with a drum sander. I figure for this stack, probably 100 or more passes!
I've tried taking it part way on the bandsaw, but it almost has to be done free hand and I'm not that patient.
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Thinking a 6X80 Edge sander would be very effective. Wish I had one.

Anybody got a slick idea for fast processing??

Title: Re: Milling Ideas?
Post by: Mad Max on June 29, 2022, 04:12:06 PM
Use a thickness sander to get the belly flat and most of the meat off.
I use my 6 x 80 edge sander to finish them.

You need some kind of belt sander to clamp to the table.
Where did you get the boo slats?
Title: Re: Milling Ideas?
Post by: Buggs on June 29, 2022, 04:24:38 PM
The slats came from Howard Hill archery. They use to sell this really nice stuff they imported directly.
Not any more, this is my last batch. I will be looking for a new source soon.
Title: Re: Milling Ideas?
Post by: Mad Max on June 29, 2022, 04:34:33 PM
It seems like everybody is out of stock. :dunno:
You need a edge sander to make bow building easer, it's almost a must have thing.
Title: Re: Milling Ideas?
Post by: wood carver 2 on June 29, 2022, 04:49:38 PM
I run mine over my jointer. I use a pair of rubber faced push blocks to keep my fingers away from the knives. This method isn’t for inexperienced people. The push blocks can slip on the smooth bamboo. I try and push at the nodes and I put my weight on it. If you try it, take shallow cuts.
I kill two birds with one stone here. While I’m flattening the slats, I also taper them at the same time.
Dave.
Title: Re: Milling Ideas?
Post by: Buggs on June 29, 2022, 05:11:13 PM
It seems like everybody is out of stock. :dunno:
You need a edge sander to make bow building easer, it's almost a must have thing.
I have a lonely 2hp motor that hopefully will transform into an edge sander some day. Just need to find a suitable table.

I never tried a jointer or planer. Always afraid they would chew it up. That and I would have to sharpen the blades :banghead: No problems Eh?