I am wanting to get back into trad archery but would like to do it by building my own bow but don't know much about it nor have equipment to do it. Was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on a good place to start?

Depends on what you want to do. There seems to be lots of info on building self bows, from books to videos to YouTube channels. Far less guidance on laminated bows. There are some build alongs posted in this forum that will give you some insight. Bingham projects sells an outdated video with mediocre production values that nonetheless gives good insight into the lam bow process. They also sell all the components you need for building a press, oven, and bow. Basically, search the web, YouTube, forums, and glean what you can from each source.

Go to one of the jamboree TennClassic, Ojam, Mojam or find someone from a local bow club u'll be surprized how many bowyers there are close to u and how helpful they will be

Decide on what type of bow you would like to build. I don't know much about wooden bows having only built a couple, for me they are much more difficult than the laminated fiberglass type. Binghams is a great start for the fiberglass type. I began building way before Binghams had videos and used mostly hand tools more work but less money. There is a wealth of information on this and similar forums. If you want to build one of either type you can have all the help you want or need for just the asking. Good luck on your build.

Thanks, was checking out Bingham website earlier and seen they have kits to build about any design of laminated bow you want. Anybody have any experience with the kits from Bingham?

Yes. If I was a beginner. I would start with the flat longbow. JF

poorfolkbows.com is a great starting point also. shows how much can be done without alot of tools.

Nick, check your Private messages

Is the flat longbow a simpler build?

First bow I built was a Reflex/Deflex takedown longbow with a metal riser. Designed the riser and limbs myself, Old Master Crafters was right on, on the limb tapers and glass. Had a good machinist friend help me with it.

I have never used a blue print or design from anyone else to build any bows, I just measure a bunch that I have and come up with my best guess.

As one of my bowyer friends said, smooth on can make a bowyer out of anybody.

It is way easier to build a bow than you think, just use your imagination, ask a lot of questions and watch a lot of videos. If you are lucky, there maybe someone close by to get you started.

If you have already registered, please

sign in now

For new registrations

Click Here