This stave is 82" long and has a 4" backset. Does it seem a bit narrow and thin(front to back). Because of the tight grain I'm planning on a bamboo backing. I did a boo backed over ten years ago but it was a RH, a great shooting bow- all my friends really liked it. But I shoot LH now so this is my project.I believe I am going to have to add wood to the grip. I plan on cutting it down to 64" to remove a couple of big knots toward both ends. It should have about 2" backset then. I  have a goal of 50#-55#.


 
 

I think it'll make a dandy bow. I've worked thinner rings on unbacked bows in the past, from the looks of the rings on that stave, I don't think I'd back it. But, backed with bamboo it oughta be a screamer.

Looks like to me you could go either way on that stave. Backed or unbacked. Take the bark and sap off and see what you got left. It ought to be a smoker. Dean

yup. ought to be a fast one. keep us updated.

Good looking stave-you may want to save the backing decision till later-sinew when done right is great too.

hey raghorn,

if i can trust my eyes (pics not so clear), i would take the 5th ring as back (if the stave is not too narrow). if necessary i´d glue a handle on. but 50-55# should be possible i think.
have fun with it!

greets