Hey all,
I like to experiment and make tabs to try out in search for the perfect one. I am still looking.
Anyway, lately I have been making tabs like what I bought from Eagles Flight Archery with the "O" Rings. EFA has the BEST tabs of anyone, BAR NONE. I shoot 3 under and they are just awesome. At $12, there are NONE better at any price. Just thought I'd mention that for those that might be looking for a tab to try.
I was nosing through some pics on the various retailer pages and came across a tab that looked interesting. It was a single layer of cordovan leather with a hole cut for the finger and that was all. Now, I would have it for 3 under and with an "O" ring if I were going to make one.
I thought I'd ask you guys and see how many of you have used or continue to use a tab from a single layer of cordovan like this. If so, do you like them or not?
If you have any pics of your tab, please post as I am always looking for ideas to try.
For that matter, how about posting pics of tabs anyway, I can always find some inspiration out of other tabs.
Thanks all
Nalajr
I use one like you describe and it's my favorite. Used to get them from Alaska Bowhunting Supply but don't know if they still offer them.
I make my own tabs. This particular one is cordovan. I don't use a single layer but a thin layer of some other type of soft leather because I don't like the scratchy under layer of most leathers. I've created a pattern that works for me and I can literally make 11 tabs for what the cost of 1 would be.
Big jim sells a 4x4 square of cordovan I believe, super thumbs up to him!
(http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee256/krakka17/Mobile%20Uploads/image_1.jpeg) (http://s234.photobucket.com/user/krakka17/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_1.jpeg.html)
(http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee256/krakka17/image_3.jpeg) (http://s234.photobucket.com/user/krakka17/media/image_3.jpeg.html)
(http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee256/krakka17/Mobile%20Uploads/image_2.jpeg) (http://s234.photobucket.com/user/krakka17/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_2.jpeg.html)
I've been using the single layer, Screaming Eagle tabs for years. I don't see any reason to change.
http://www.screamingeagle.us/reservations.html
I usually get my from Granpa, a member here, cheaper than from Screaming Eagle.
I use the bateman with all the other stuff tore off but the single piece of cordovan
http://www.eaglearchery.com/Traditional-Neet-Finger-Tab-Cordovan-Leather/?gclid=CjwKEAiA1JuyBRCogJLz4J71kj0SJADsd6QRkFRTySbLEfU558DaabNSe2284OK7B-pj5Q4-Pdd2JhoCmzvw_wcB
This is the tab that changed it all for me. I never liked a tab until I got this one. it is a thin layer of cordovan leather with some type of backing. I absolutely LOVE this tab!
I have wanted to try to build me a tab, but for $9 a piece at the nocking point, I just ordered 2 and for around $21 shipped. I don't think I could get 2 tabs out of a 4 x 4 square for $20, so it is a no brainer to me. Might as well support a sponsor here as well.
I make mine (Mediterranean style release) from pieces of leather left from projects. 2 to 3 oz works fine. Heavier is much too stiff. They are softened by oiling. I use neats foot oil but Even plain vegetable oil would work fine.
My first one didn't have the little tab in the slot to protect your index finger from the nock point. You do need that.
Mine are economical because of the left over materials. Have not tried cordovan because it was not a part of any projects.
What would be the advantage of cordovan over veg tan?
The Cordovan is much tougher and will last YEARS where a vegetable tanned tab will puke out long before.
There are guys (and gals I guess) on here and other boards that shoot cordovan tabs that have literally shot hundreds of thousands of arrows without any noticeable degradation of the leather.
You don't have to have any conditioner, softeners, or any other type of break-in with cordovan.
I'm sure others can chime in here and talk about it much better than I can do. I am not that knowledgeable on the various types of leather. It is good stuff though. Give it a try. Expensive though.
Nalajr
I have used 'screaming eagle' cordovan tabs for 18 years.
11 years on the same Screaming Eagle here.
Birdbow loaned me one of his when i went to his place to shoot and left my glove home. Never shot a glove again. That was about ten years ago and I had been shooting with a glove for nearly 60 years.
Eleven years! That's longevity. In my case, I'd lose it long before
I use a super mitt that i cut down to one layer. Got about 5 of them, but still shooting original for 15 yrs or so.
i've used the same screaming eagle cordovan tab for all of 20 yrs. now. just can't wear it out!!
I made my own single layer cordovan many years ago. I made several spares and have not had to use one of them yet. I love the feel of a thinner tab. My original is still going strong.
I do use cordovan tabs. Mine are drop away like. BW tabs I make myself. There is not a universal best. Only a best for you and how and what you shoot, but it has been fun testing a multitude of the offerings over the years