Have you ever wanted a bow but it cost a lot of money, or do you want to be like Katniss Everdeen, this is the place for you.
Step 1: The materials need to be gathered.
If you use proper safety precautions, you can use several tools instead of the ones suggested.There is a list of suggested tools.
Step 2: Cut the pipes.
You need to cut the pipes if you didn't purchase them.Use a pipe cutter or multi-tool saw to cut the main bow pipe.Then, cut two sections of the same material.
Step 3: The pipes should be combined.
The main bow pipe should be put into a fist.To hammer it in, use a rubber mallet.You may need to use a lot of force to squeeze it.The tops of the pipes should be flushed at the end.Do the same with the second pipe after the first one is done.
Step 4: The hand grip needs to be created.
The section of pipe that needs to be cut is on the other side.This will allow you to slide it over the bow.Attach it to the main bow with electrical tape once you have cut it and placed it in the center.If you overlap the tape, you can create a sturdy layer.Face the side with the cut on the outside of the bow away from where the string will be.The cut may open and close when you bend the bow.It's possible that the cut is facing the wrong way.
Step 5: Use scissors to cut the paracord.
To tie onto your bow, you will need 62" of paracord.This length is a couple inches longer than you need, but you will lose some length as you tie the paracord onto the bow.Take out 62" and cut the paracord with scissors.Use a flame to seal off the ends.You can lightly burn the paracord with a lighter or match.The ends will not be affected by this.
Step 6: Make a mark on the bow.
You can use a hacksaw or a saw to create a wide grooving that sits at a 70 degree angle.The back of the bow is where the paracord is pulled.The angle helps the paracord stay secure, and a 1/2 hole allows it to fit snug.
Step 7: Tie a knot when you slip the cord into the grooves.
Bring the string up to the other end and tie a second knot if you have a firm knot secured.It will snap back if there is enough tension in the string.
Step 8: Place the caps on.
If you want to finish the look of your bow, and protect the paracord on each end, consider placing on PVC caps.The caps should fit on each end.If a string breaks, you need to restring the bow, so don't glue the caps on.
Step 9: The bow should be painted.
You can use spray paint to decorate your bow.Put your bow down on a piece of cardboard and spray it.Before using your bow, be sure to remove the paracord and PVC caps and allow the paint to fully dry.Follow the directions on the label.
Step 10: The materials need to be gathered.
If you are using proper safety precautions, you can use alternate tools to create a wood bow.Here are a few suggestions: Hand axe Machete Draw knife Wood rasp Carpenters pencil Tape measure Straight edge Bow string
Step 11: You can choose the right tree.
There are certain qualities to look for in a hunting bow.There is a tree that is about four feet in diameter.
Step 12: The tree should be cut down.
If you can find the straightest six foot section, cut it down with a handsaw or chainsaw.If you want the wood to dry out, let it mature for six months in a dry place.
Step 13: The bark needs to be removed.
A draw knife is the easiest way to remove bark.A draw knife is a good woodworking tool for roughing off corners and skinning bark.Gloves should be worn to protect your hands when working with a draw knife.
Step 14: Take a look at the wood.
The bow should be 68" long and you should look for the cleanest and straightest side of wood.Look for areas that don't show signs of weakness or rot.There isn't anything you can do about wood that is starting to break down.To mark where you will cut, use a thick carpenter's pencil.
Step 15: Cut the wood.
To cut the ends, use a hatchet and machete.You want to leave the handle section in the middle of the limbs, which is about 2 inches thick.To help shape the limbs, use a wood rasp which has small teeth and is meant to smooth out wood.
Step 16: Put your hands on the limbs.
The bow limbs should be placed on the floor after you have finished shaping it.You want the limb to bend uniformly.When applying pressure, be careful.You want to test the bow's flexibility, but not break it.Check to see if the bow can bend.Remove more wood to weaken the limb.
Step 17: The notch needs to be created.
To hold the string or paracord, you need to cut a deep notch at both ends of the bow limb.You should move away from the front of the bow.This will help secure the bow string.
Step 18: You have to string the bow.
Through the notch, tie a knot around each end.Bring the string down to the other side if you tie off one end.If you want the string to snap when you pull it, make it have enough tension.
Step 19: Try your new bow.
You can either buy arrows or make them yourself.Always practice caution when using a bow.