So i am just getting into traditional archery, self teaching, and am trying to make some arrows. I have a 36 inch log (its probably about 16 - 18 inches in diameter) and i am looking for a traditional way to split it into smaller segments.
I experimented with this a few years ago but honestly didn't have the time or patience. I used a splitting froe to split out a slab, then split that into squares. I had an arrow-plane that was designed to turn the squares into round shafts. It was a lot of work and the finished spine varied greatly. I actually preferred using sprouts. Dogwood, Ironwood, If it's straight and of suitable spine it can be used. I made, what I call a "compare" spine tester.. Pretty crude... a couple nails in a board.. set the distance of my arrow length or 28", doesn't really matter. I have wood arrows that shoot well from my bow.. I mark the deflection or bend they make.. then get my sprouts to match. That's an over-simplified description but it works well. If you're just beginning Traditional I would recommend buying wood shafts and making arrows that way first.. It's lots of fun but if you decide to go that way there are a few things you need to know.. glad to help if you ask. woodsman
I would recommend carbon arrows, easton axis, beman mfx classic, or byron ferguson heavy hunters if your going to hunt
