Tell me what you use for grip wrap or tape. I've got a couple of bows that have a fairly slick grip and would like something other than leather to try. I've got some leather I can use for the grip but I also have some skateboard grip tape and some silicone wrap material. I'd like to hear what you're using and how you've got it on your bow.
On some of my selfbows I'll wrap the handle with hemp cord from Walmart. After I wrap it I saturate it with Massey finish, 2 part epoxy diluted with acetone. After it dries I lightly sand it to get the lumps and hairs off. It's waterproof and gives you a good purchase on the handle.
(https://i.imgur.com/JMDF3i4.jpg)
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I use a rolled up paper towel to saturate the handle wrap with the Massey finish.
I have used leather that I cut to fit and sewn on and have used tennis racket wrap. The leather does have a nice look, but the tennis racket wrap makes a great grip.
I have used tennis racquet grip tape quite a bit...quick and easy and does a good job for me.
Beaver tail
If you are gonna use beaver tail or leather you can wrap masking tape around the handle a few times then with a sharp razor cut down the center along the back and peel it off. That makes a perfect pattern for your wrap.
I use hockey tape on my grips. Cheap and works well
Here's what I tried today. I cut a piece of skateboard tape about 1/2" wide and about 3-4" long. I put it long ways down the outside of the grip making sure I started it under the throat of the grip so it doesn't in any way cause any issues with setting my grip hand. it worked very well. I think that may be all I do.
Here's where I got the idea. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/egUMSGsREEQ
:thumbsup: Good deal. Just as some bows feel good to some and not others, there is not necessarily a "right" way when it comes to feel. The important thing is to do what works for you. Feels good =shoot more = shoot better in a lot of cases. :campfire:
I use a Wilson tennis racket wrap. Works great.
Quote from: Pat B on February 18, 2026, 03:54:53 PMIf you are gonna use beaver tail or leather you can wrap masking tape around the handle a few times then with a sharp razor cut down the center along the back and peel it off. That makes a perfect pattern for your wrap.
THAT is an excellent trick for getting an accurate pattern for leather or what ever you use. :clapper:
Do you have a method for pre stretching the leather you use? The only thing i've come up with is using these clamps with rubber pads on them. The rubber grips the leather without marking it up too bad. I use two of them to stretch the leather and overlap the seam. then cut it a bit short so the lacing snugs it up tight as its sewn.
IMG_6219.jpg
Back on track for NOT using leather. You can stipple the thumb pad area, or use masking tape to get the textured part you want, and use a textured paint.
something like this will work well.
https://www.amazon.com/Seymour-16-083-Resistant-Coating-Spray/dp/B019RTKF4K/ref=asc_df_B019RTKF4K?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80195681205661&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=109295&hvtargid=pla-4583795260296993&th=1
Try vet wrap, works very well and you can change the shape of the grip with it. Easily replaced comes in different colors if that's your thing. Inexpensive. I used it to keep strap on bow quivers from sliding as well when I used them.
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Quote from: Pat B on February 18, 2026, 03:54:53 PMIf you are gonna use beaver tail or leather you can wrap masking tape around the handle a few times then with a sharp razor cut down the center along the back and peel it off. That makes a perfect pattern for your wrap.
Pat's right on with this!
Lizard skins grip tape
What about checkering like a gun stock? It's pretty tedious work though.
There is no end to what you can experiment with. I often come back to simple old black fabric electricians tape. It's not pretty but it sure works.
Skateboard tape. I cut a small piece and apply to the grip area where my bow hand's thumb pad makes contact, which is the sole pressure point that keeps the bow from falling down when at full draw. A view of the bow hand shows that it is held near horizontal, with only the meat below the thumb applying pressure to the grip. The skateboard tape is also an indicator as to where to settle the thumb base to the grip. All bow hand fingers encircle the bow grip but apply NO pressure. I do NOT "grip" any bow - there needs to be ONE point of bow hand contact, not multiple points where resulting pressures will lead to inconsistent releases. At the release, the bow riser jumps forward to be "caught" by my encircled fingers, where the pointer finger is touching the thumb to keep the bow from falling. There is no need for a finger sling or bow grip sling.
I always use a nice piece of tanned elk hide, from an elk I shot with my bow. Cut to fit, then use rubber cement.
I like the elk hide, because it not only elimates the slickness of the grip, but also absorbs the sweat from my hand. Usually lasts 6-8 years before replacing it.
I've used self adhesive camo wrap before, it's tacky in the heat and cold and doesn't leave any residue or anything. Cheap and can replace as often as you want.
I also really like bicycle tire inner tube. You can get them for $3 or so and you have rubber grips for life. They are impressively tacky when your hands are sweaty, too. Easy and cheap to replace. I've used them on my pistols for many years and they last plenty long and provide a grip similar to "hogue" grips if you're familiar with that sort of thing.
I use Wilson tennis racket grip. It's designed to not hold moisture, and gives a great grip on the bow.