Which Bow Building Books? Flint knapping too?

[koger]

Guys I am thinking of making a few bows, have made 2, cherry laminated with hickory backing that worked well, several more were disasters. What is the best one source to learn about chasing growth rings,etc, basics, and flint knapping basics, tools I need. I want to read up this winter and thenbe ready by warm weather to get my feet wet again. I actually lucked out on the 2 that worked. I also plan on backing them with glass. Also if there is any post on here that I need to know about please pass them on to me, all help appreicated!

[bjansen]

Samuel,

I just started making bows this year..and when I first started I got alot of info from build-alongs posted on Tradgang..and trial an error.


However, I was just recommended and I just finished reading the Bowyer's Bible, vol 1.  It is a very good reference in my opinion, ...and it is about $16 on Amazon, $24 in book stores  The Bowyer's bible collection is made of 4 books in total, and although I have not read 2-4 yet...I am sure they will dive into flint knapping.

Good luck

[Apex Predator]

I haven't seen any flint knapping in the TBB series, but they are invaluable for all wood bows.  Jack Harrison authored a book for building glass bows that is supposed to be the best.  I can't remember the title of Jacks book.

[BigJim]

Jacks book is called "more unnecessary fun". It is a good book too, but only teaches about laminated glass bows.

BigJim

[Pat B]

"FLINTKNAPPING, Making and understanding stone tools" By John Whittaker is an excellent book on knapping.
  TBBI if you can only buy one of the set but all are worthwhile. "The bent Stick", by Paul Comstock, Hunting the Osage Bow" by Dean Torges and there are others.      Pat

[koger]

Thanks guys, your helping me make up my mind.

[KILLER B]

You can read all you want but your not realy going to learn anything until you are doing it with your own hands.  The books are great references for bows.  But as far a knapping goes get yourself to a knap in and talk to people and watch.  You will be able to get most if not all the tools you need.  Best wishes and good luck.

[Mike Byrge@home]

sent you a PM Sam - I've got some things you may want.

[Rick P]

Originally posted by KILLER B:
You can read all you want but your not realy going to learn anything until you are doing it with your own hands.  The books are great references for bows.  But as far a knapping goes get yourself to a knap in and talk to people and watch.  You will be able to get most if not all the tools you need.  Best wishes and good luck.

Kinda hard to do from rural Alaska so if anyone else has a reference book for knapping in mind I'd love to hear about it. I'm getting the first 2 TBB for Yule. And look forward to Mr. Harrison's book as well. Thanks all.

[koger]

Guys I have done some knapping, self taught, making small bird heads and such from flakes I have picked up in the plowed fields, my tobaaco patch, have even made a few flints for ML's with some varied succes, Kinda know the basics. I have trouble knocking of big spalls or flakes from large chunks, can make pretty decent edges.I appreciate all the feedback.