First,

I have try to find the answer myself. But there was no information so I have no problem being yell at for even suggesting something like this.

But, can you reshape a finished laminated bow? What about a solid selfbow?

For example, taking a straight ASL, and adding reflex/deflex to it.

Or is it once a bow has it shape, any attempt to reshape it will lead to delamination and failure?

Now once you tar and feathers me, I'm just curious if its something that can be done.

Nope on all counts.

A laminated bow, once made, is that shape forever. You can do some reshaping on the riser perhaps,within reason, but not the limbs. A selfbow may be able to be reshaped depending on the wood that it is made of and how old it is. Would have to be retillered.

"Nope on all counts." agreed.

You can do things with a selfbow.

One man’s opinion…

If what you have isn’t what you want, then get what you want instead. If you are concerned about the money that you would lose by selling a bow off, just think how much you would lose by breaking it.

Looks like the key word here is "no".

I was expecting a lot of Nos too based on what I researched, but it's been pretty even yes and no at this point actually.

Not if folks pay attention to the "laminated" part.

Selfbows were also mentioned.

No on laminated- yes to a degree on selfbow.>>>----> Ken

Well my personal role model said it is possible with selfbow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eprgnhAlcM

Of course it is. A selfbow being "done" is a process that might theoretically never be over.

Hmmmmm. Almost everyone who responded said it's possible with a self bow.

you can reshape a self bow, but lots of variables, and wouldnt suggest it unless you are shaping the non working part, like the tip or at the handle area,, if you reshape and put sinew thats different, but then it wont be a self bow anymore,,

My buddy Paul did that exact thing. Type this into Search Archive box, “Reverse handle Hickory Self bow”. You’ll see the info and pictures.

Search Reverse Handle Hickory Self-Bow.

A selfbow can be reshaped to some degree with heat. Sometimes it holds and helps, sometimes it ends up worse. Depends.

It can also be given outer limb reflex by sawing a kerf into the outer quarter or third of the limb and gluing in a parallel or tapered lam of appropriate thickness. This can be done on backed bows too. Retillering is sometimes needed in such instances, and depending on the quality of the bow to begin with and the issues trying to be remedied, the total effects of the efforts may net no real gain. If not retillered carefully, strengthening the outer limb can cause the inner limb to take even more set, negating any potential benefit. Success, or not, is dependent on understanding and ability.

A skilled bowyer can reduce poundage on a lam bow by carefully removing limb material Don't think he/she could do much more

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