I am really pleased with the way this bow has turned out. Not perfect, but it looks decent and it shoots well. I have learned a lot building this bow and had a blast doing it. And that is the point of the entire exercise isn't it?
The paduak handle/riser is the best part in my eyes. I love the way wood can transform from a fairly plain block to a voluptuous and colorful body that begs to be caressed.
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| unremarkable block |
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| Improved with curves |
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| before finishing |
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| After finishing |
Here you can see the color boost that the finish gives the wood. I just used a 2 in 1 red oak finish that I purchased from Lowe's for less than 5 bucks.
The finish highlights a couple of flaws in the woodwork, but the lessons learned will improve the look of the next bow.
Final draw weight is about 45lbs at 28" which makes it a legal hunting bow in Alberta. Not sure how fast my arrows go, but my wooden arrows are heavy. The do make a nice resounding 'smack' when they impact the target.
Stay tuned for more bowyer action, I started the tapered longbow while waiting for the finish to dry on this one.
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| Starting the tapered longbow |
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| Parting shot of the paduak |
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