How to Make a Fiberglass-Backed Bow

Bows are powerful and exciting weapons. However, there is only so much strength you can get from a wooden bow. If you want a stronger bow, consider making a fiberglass-backed bow. These bows are only slightly more difficult to make than a standard wooden bow and can last for years.

Things You'll Need

  • Sapling about 4 feet long and 2 inches in diameter
  • Sharp knife
  • Thin sheet of fiberglass
  • Permanent marker
  • Electric saw
  • File
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood glue
  • Clamps
  • Nylon bow string
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Instructions

    • 1

      Strip off the bark of the sapling with the knife. Allow the sapling to dry in the sun for a day or so.

    • 2

      Look closely at your sapling and decide which side should be the front side of the bow. Generally, the side that is in the best condition should be the front. Carve away some wood from the belly of the bow. Remove approximately 1/2-inch of wood, giving the bow a flat belly but keeping the curved front.

    • 3

      Place the bow belly-side-down on the dull side of the fiberglass sheet. Use the permanent marker to trace the shape of your bow. Set the bow aside. Cut the fiberglass backing out, staying just outside the line you drew.

    • 4

      Check to make sure the fiberglass backing fits nicely along the back of the bow. Use the file to shape the back of the bow where necessary. Also use the file to taper the edges of the backing toward the bow. You want the backing to mold seamlessly to the bow, so fiddle with it until you achieve your goal. Check the fit of the backing frequently as you work.

    • 5

      Sand the bow smooth with the sandpaper. Apply a thin coating of wood glue to the belly of the bow. Put the fiberglass backing in place and clamp together. Allow the glue to dry thoroughly. This will usually take 24 hours, but check the manufacturer's directions on the glue you're using to determine a precise drying time.

    • 6

      Use the file to carve notches, one into each end of the bow. The notches should go through the wood core and the fiberglass backing. These will be the nocks of the bow and will secure the bow string.

    • 7

      Tie the bow string tightly to one of the nocks. Bend the bow slightly and tie the other end of the bow string to the second nock. You will probably have to trim the bow string to size. When you get the right tension, the bow should be slightly bent but still allow for a full draw. Experiment with different tensions to get it just right.