Penobscot bows are powerful and accurate.
The Penobscot bow is a compound bow comprised of two bows attached at the grip. This double bow design results in a great deal of power in a relatively small package. Arrows fired from the Penobscot bow are accurate and fast, and the unique design allows for an easier draw. This bow was produced originally by hand by the Penobscot tribes in North America, so it is possible for you to make your own version in the comfort of your own home.
Instructions
1. Trim the first sapling to 4 feet long and the second sapling to 2 feet long using the knife. Strip the bark off of both of them using your hands. You may use a knife for stubborn bark, but be careful not to damage the wood. Set both saplings aside to dry for 24 hours.
2. Secure the smaller sapling in the vice. Draw a straight line from end to end to mark the belly of the smaller bow. Place an "X" in the center of this line, dividing the bow in half lengthwise. Mark out 3 inches above and below this line. Use the file and knife to shape the belly of the smaller bow. The bow should be 1 inch thick at the grip area and 1/2 inch thick at the ends. Shape the bow to these dimensions with a gentle taper. Remove the bow from the vice.
3. Secure the larger sapling in the vice. Mark the belly of the bow with a straight line. Carve out the belly of the bow so that the entire bow is 3/4 inch thick. Remove the bow from the vice.
4. Sand both bows smooth to prevent slivers.
5. Carve four notches, one in each end of each bow, to form the nocks of the bows. These should be 1 inch deep.
6. Immerse the large bow in the trough, making sure it is covered completely with water. Set the trough out in the sun and let the bow soak for four to five days. This should make the bow pliable enough to bend slightly. If the bow is not pliable, return it to the water for up to three more days.
7. Turn the rain barrel on its side. Strap the large bow to the rain barrel with the leather straps. It should be strapped belly-side down over the barrel so that it forms a recurve. The curve should be gentle, but noticeable. Allow it to dry in this position for five to seven days.
8. Glue the bows together at the grip. The belly of the smaller bow should rest against the front of the larger bow. Clamp and allow the glue to dry according to the manufacturer's directions.
9. Wrap the leather grip around the grip of the double bow and trim to size with the knife. Remove the leather grip and coat the grip of the bow with glue. Replace the leather and allow the glue to dry according to the manufacturer's directions.
10. String your Penobscot bow. Tie one end of the bow string to the top nock of the smaller bow. Thread the bow string through the top nock of the larger bow, down through the bottom nock of the larger bow, and secure it to the bottom nock of the smaller bow. Pull the string taunt until the smaller bow curves just slightly. The exact tension is a matter of personal preference, so experiment before tying off the bow string for good. Your bow should now be ready for use.
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