self bow question

[Broken Arrow]

I was wondering if anyone could help me with any info in regards to the eastern half of the state who may teach classes on making a self bow? I have done hours, opon hours, of research online in regards to staves, techniques, materials, etc.... I would like to go with Osage Orange, and give myself a nice winter project. I think I could struggle through this myself, though with the cost of a good stave, I would really prefer going through a class with a master bow maker, just to provide tips and techniques, etc. Any help from traditional bow hunters would be greatly appeciated. Thanks to all who provide info.

[Ray]

The only guy I know who does self bow classes within Washington is located in Fall City - St. Charles. He only does them in August. He certainly knows what he is doing when it comes to self bows.

If you have a lot of time on your hands you could always consider harvesting some free vine maple staves for practice.

I built one last spring from vine maple.

[Ray]

One more thing. The traditional bowhunters of Washington does Selfbow Jamborees every year. http://tbwonline.org

[ribka]

I was looking into taking a class on the E side too. Will do some checking and let you know
Took a class many years ago when I lived in MD. Need a refresher course .

If have a few books and a VHS somewhere on bow building. If I can find them you can borrow them. It is a lot of fun. Have built bows from ash, osage and vine maple. Took one doe with the osage bow and homemade arrow. Some day hope to take a deer with a flint or obsidian head.

[Broken Arrow]

Ray...I appreciate the info. I have read many of your post and oppinions on archery. I tried hunting years ago with a long bow and was very frustrated, and yes...im one of those guys who you may have argued with on long shots with a compound...however, something in my brain is switching gears and the thought of taking an animal with something I made from myself at a close distance, is getting more and more appealing. I will check into your info....thanks!

[ribka]

No hunting experience compares with taking your first animal with a self bow. i have taken 2 wt does and a buck from ground blind.

[merlo105]

The easiest thing you can do is start with a board bow it couldnt be any easier. And they shoot pretty good... You can find all kinds of pages on Boards bows.. There fun to make and very cheap.... Good luck