A well-constructed recurve bow gives more strength; as a result, the study on how to make a recurve bow is paramount. The drawback power and the penetration power of any recurve bow depends on how well it’s constructed.
Your decision to learn how to make a recurve bow is one of the best choices any archer can make. If you need a more versatile and a recurve bow that easily maneuvers, then you’d instead consider a short-length recurve bow. Making a recurve bow from scratch isn’t an easy process for the people who are not perfectly guided.
In this article, you will learn the instruments needed in building your recurve bow and the process of making it.
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Tools for constructing a recurve bow
It’s possible to use just a knife to build one, but the process will be somewhat cumbersome. Indeed, you will need to make the process simple and safer. Also, you need to avoid using power tools because they can damage the stave. The following tools will make your recurve bow making process more efficient.
- A ruler or tape measure
- Saw
- Axe or Hatchet
- Belt knife
- Drawknife
- Scrapper
- A rasp and a half round double rasp or ashore rasp
Materials needed for constructing a recurve bow
The overall quality of the recurve bow constructed depends on the choice of the material used. For instance, if you need a strong arm for your bow, a wood laminate would be a good option. There are varieties of materials available for your selection.
- Sandpaper
- A bow stave
- A finishing material, e.g. wax and oil
- A marking tool, e.g. pencil
- A right length of cord, 100 kg of breaking strain, and a nylon cord.
Recurve Bow Making Guide
A recurve bow propels arrows further than traditional bows, but it must be correctly made in order to achieve that.
Like most procedures, making a perfect recurve bow takes skill and experience, but if you follow the three-step process described hereunder, you’ll make an effective recurve bow.
See More: Best Recurve Bow For Beginners – Recommended By Experts
Preparation of the Bow
The first step is preparing your bow. The wood for your stave should be flexible, strong, and malleable. The recommended trees are oak and ash because of their obvious rings.
You should begin by identifying a tree with the right diameter, 15 to 20 cm. Cut down the tree using your hatchet and then cut out 1.6-2m off the tree. After removing the bark of the tree, split it into quarters. To prevent the tree from cracking, apply glue at its edges then leave it to dry for a month. Identify and mark the section of the stave you intend to use and cut it off according to your markings, leaving an allowance for working.
At this stage, you can test your stave to ensure it easily bends. The final step in the preparation is to form the limbs. Put the handle in place, tighten your stave, and ensure it is facing upward.
Shaping the Bow
The second step is to ensure that your bow is of good shape. In this step, the stave is placed in the right segment of the bow shaping frame. The frame has screw clamps which will adjust your stave to the right position to make two curves; one curve away from the handle and another curve towards the handle. This is the right step to make accurate measurements of the limbs. Finally, give the wood time to set in the new shape for the final bow to be long-lasting.
Stringing the Bow
The last step is stringing the bow. Put notches on the tap and bottom of the limb for holding the bowstring. By this time, the bow is in the right shape; all you need is to put the tillering string on it.
The right length of the string should be double the intended size. A loop is tied on the string then attached to the notches of the limb. Make use of the tillering stick to slowly and gradually pull the bow further but carefully to avoid damage until it reaches the acceptable draw. You can now remove it from the tillering stick, remove the tillering string, attach the browsing, and loop the ends around the notches. Finally, add some artwork, protective coating or leather.
How to Make Recurve Bow YouTube Guide
Conclusion
In addition to the knowledge gained about making a recurve bow, the information in this article will also make better archers. It’s evident that the performance of a recurve bow depends on its construction. The three steps in this article will help you build a reliable and efficient recurve bow for optimum production.
Making the recurve bow is relatively time and energy-consuming, but your commitment is your assurance of achieving the best results. If you are a bow-hunting enthusiast, this article is also meant for you. If you diligently select the materials, assemble the right tools, and use the right procedure, your recurve bow will be like no other.
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