How to Make a Bow With Bodock

Bodock is a wood that has long been used to make bows and war clubs. From the French word "bois d'arc," which means "wood of the bow," Bodock wood is so hearty that it rarely decays. Bows constructed from bodock last a long time and are strong and flexible. This wood can be used to make any size bow, though bodock is most commonly used to construct long bows. Making one of these powerful bows in your own home is a project that can be completed in a few days.

Things You'll Need

  • Bodock sapling, 6 feet long
  • Sharp knife designed for whittling
  • Sandpaper
  • Nylon bow string
  • Wood glue
  • Leather strap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a bodock sapling. This sapling should be approximately 6 feet long and no more than 2 inches wide. Bear in mind that you will have to be able to grasp the finished bow comfortably in your fist. If it's too wide, you won't be able to do that. Also, the sapling must be flexible enough to bend as the bow is drawn, so avoid any brittle saplings. Stores that stock archery supplies should be able to help you find a high-quality bodock sapling or stave to make your bow.

    • 2

      Strip the bark off the sapling, using a whittling knife, but be careful not to cut into the wood. Allow the sapling to dry approximately 24 hours.

    • 3

      Shape the sapling with the knife. The bow should taper just slightly toward the ends, so whittle the wood carefully to accomplish this. Ensure that the ends of the bow remain at least 1 inch thick to avoid breaking the bow when in use.

    • 4

      Cut a single slit in each end of the bow, ensuring that these slits are centered on the ends of the bow. The slits should be 1 inch deep and only wide enough to slide the bow string into.

    • 5

      Pass a nylon bow string through one of the slits and tie it securely. Make sure it will not come undone when both weight and pressure are applied.

    • 6

      Tie the other end of the sting to the second slit. The bow should be bent slightly, and there should be enough tension to keep the bow bent but still allow you to perform a full draw. You may have experiment to get the tension just right, but it's worth the time.

    • 7

      Find a comfortable location for the grip. This will often be in the center of the bow, but you may prefer it slightly higher or lower. Wrap a leather strap around this location and cut to size. Remove the strap and apply wood glue to the back of the leather.

    • 8

      Apply wood glue to the area where you want the grip. Press the leather strap into place and let dry. You might want to use an elastic or string to hold it in place if it tends to fall off, though this is optional. Once the glue is dry, remove the elastic or string. The glue must be completely dry before you use the bow. Appropriate drying time can be determined by reading the manufacturer's directions for the wood glue you've selected.

    • 9

      Test the bow and make adjustments as needed. Once all adjustments are made, the bow is ready to use.