[Ansteorra-archery] My first board bow

[Sylvrfalcn at aol.com]

Hmmm,
  If you're not worried about being period correct, and you've got some 
available, go with the fiberglass. Linen backings are basically just a strip of 
coarse woven linen fabric glued to the back of the bow with such low tech bonding 
agents as Titebond II wood glue. Then again, at a length of 66", and a 
relatively low draw weight of 28 lbs., you may need no backing at all. Got any 
cracks? How about grain slivers "lifting" along the back of the bow? If not, I'm 
sure you're familiar with the phrase "don't fix it if it ain't broke" ;-)
  My preference in finishes is several coats of Tung oil, followed by several 
coats of Johnson paste wax (the kind for hardwood floors). I've also resorted 
to spray polyurethane if rushed for time, and it makes for a durable, 
attractive finish. Just be sure you've got good ventilation and an approved mask when 
spraying that unhealthy stuff. If time permits, I do much prefer the Tung 
oil, since it penetrates into the wood. The primary function of any finish 
applied to a wood bow, is to prevent the wood fibers from accumulating moisture. 
Moisture leads to increased string follow and diminished cast, e.g. a sluggish 
bow that stays significantly bent even when unstrung.
  Hope I've been of assistance.

Cheers,
Robert