Are there any sources for bow press fire hose that may be cheaper than 75 cents an inch. But dependable?
Quote from: Crooked Stic on May 01, 2026, 12:39:39 PMAre there any sources for bow press fire hose that may be cheaper than 75 cents an inch. But dependable?
I'm working on a source for that.
Check out your local Fire Department or Volunteer Fire Department for used Hose sections. I have not bought firehouse For Bow Building in 20 years. I get old sections up to 20'+ long for free or dirt cheap. I make my own plugs and pressure check. Great source for cheap hose.
I buy at a local hydraulic and hose shop. They even often just give it to me if they have very short pieces left from a roll. It has worked well for me some are several years old.
Also, most hose has a 2 layer canvas liner. When my hose sections get stiff or have hardened areas from glue ups over time? I cut the outer layer of canvas off and now have a fresh canvas cover. Never had an issue with losing pressure or blowouts up to 60Lbs of PSI. I have at least 3-4 if these hoses still in use from time to time.
Gary, I'm curious as to how you make your own plugs. I'm short one plug for an additional hose.
Quote from: Longcruise on May 02, 2026, 08:34:15 PMGary, I'm curious as to how you make your own plugs. I'm short one plug for an additional hose.
+1 to this. Sounds like Gary needs to make a short tutorial on the process and post it up. :goldtooth:
Mark