Salish Wolf

Todd Howard
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May 13, 2026 • 1h 26min

#80 Cubby Hoover on Project Quiver

Cubby Hoover is a youth pastor based in Missouri. After being introduced to the craft of bow carving by Rick Spicer of Pack Rat Outdoor Center in Arkansas, Cubby began carving primitive bows. He has been carving bows for 8 years and is passionate about outdoor survival skills. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Cubby Hoover.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/cubbersons/https://www.youtube.com/@CubbersonsCustomBowshttps://www.facebook.com/p/Cubbersons-Custom-Bows-100090311585490/https://www.canecreekarchery.com/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Join us for an inspiring conversation with Cubby, a self-taught bowyer, bow maker, and outdoor enthusiast with a fascinating journey through archery, wilderness skills, and personal growth. Discover how experiences on "Alone" shaped his perspective, and learn practical insights on bow crafting, self-reliance, and community involvement.Show Notes:Cubby shares his background, including his early nickname and its storyHis introduction to archery through a class with Rick Spicer, and the influence of that momentThe journey from making his first board bow to crafting custom primitive bowsHow his experience on the TV show "Alone" impacted his mental health and skillsThe importance of community, mentorship, and making intentional life choicesTechniques and materials used in traditional bow making, emphasizing Osage and Black Locust woodsInsights into bushcraft skills such as flint knapping, cordage, and using natural materialsHis approach to hunting with primitive gear, and balancing it with modern methodsThe significance of hobbies and passions for mental well-beingResources, favorite tools, and advice for aspiring bowyers and bushcraft enthusiastsFuture projects including local archery events and supporting community initiativesChapters:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview02:14 - Cubby's nickname story and childhood04:50 - Growing up in Missouri and the influence of local woods07:24 - The introduction to Rick Spicer and archery classes09:41 - Starting bow making and inspiration from community mentors12:54 - Building bows from Osage and the progression of craftsmanship18:39 - Cubby's experience on "Alone" and survival challenges22:31 - Critical injury on "Alone" and decision to exit the show27:34 - Reflections on goals, failures, and mental health recovery33:48 - How community, therapy, and outdoor pursuits support well-being36:03 - Transition from hobby to part-time livelihood in bow making41:44 - Engagement with bow and arrow competitions and community events45:42 - Hunting with primitive gear and respect for nature49:34 - Bushcraft skills, natural materials, and self-reliance55:08 - Tools and techniques for traditional bow carving and maintenance62:49 - Material choices: Osage, Black Locust, Hickory, and others66:09 - Finishing touches: overlays, tips, and decorative elements70:55 - Using animals fully: hide processing, bones, and primitive tools76:49 - Current projects, upcoming events, and community involvement82:21 - Final thoughts and connecting with Cubby
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May 7, 2026 • 1h 18min

#79 Luke McLaughlin on Project Quiver

Luke is a bowyer, naturalist, teacher, rewilder, mentor, survivalist, and founder of Holistic Survival School. Luke has committed his life to mastering and teaching ancestral and indigenous living skills in order to help people find their balance and connection to the Natural World.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Luke McLaughlin.          Episode Links: https://www.holisticsurvivalschool.com/https://www.instagram.com/luke.holistic.survival.school/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this in-depth interview, Luke McLaughlin shares his journey into holistic survival, primitive skills, and bow making. Discover how these ancient practices foster connection, spiritual growth, and resilience in modern life.Show Notes:Holistic survival as a daily practicePrimitive skills for modern lifeThe spiritual and therapeutic aspects of bow making and fire buildingChapters:00:00 Introduction to Holistic Survival School03:52 The Philosophy of Survival in Modern Life06:51 Teaching Methods and Program Structure09:14 The Journey into Bow Building and Hunting12:27 Therapeutic Aspects of Survival Skills15:17 Experiences on Reality TV and Hunting18:20 The Importance of Connection to Nature21:20 Cultural Reflections on Survival and Awareness24:11 Impact of Survival Skills on Students27:06 The Power of Fire Making30:53 Bow Building: A Primal Connection37:32 Harvesting Osage: A Journey of Connection40:40 Flint Knapping: The Art of Arrowheads45:30 Living Off the Land: A Holistic Approach51:45 The Spectrum of Primitive Skills53:58 Rites of Passage and Youth Engagement56:42 Cultural Connections and Community Building01:01:01 Reconnecting with Nature and Ancestral Skills01:05:36 The Importance of Following Your Passion01:11:24 The Art of Bow Making and Attunement
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Apr 30, 2026 • 1h 22min

#78 Jared Parkinson on Project Quiver

At an early age, Jared Parkinson was introduced to primitive skills by his grandfather, who taught him to nap arrows and make atlatls and his own quiver for arrows. When Jared was 18, his grandfather gifted him a longbow, and from there, Jared’s passion for archery and bow making began.Jared is now a bowyer and a basket weaver and is dedicated to a life of primitive survival skills in his home state of Washington.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jared Parkinson.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/primitive_alchemist/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsShow Notes:Jared’s start and evolution in bow making, influenced by family and primitive skillsThe spiritual and meditative qualities of shooting primitive bowsThe significance of ritual, ceremony, and rites of passage in human culturePractical insights into bow carving, design choices, and materialsWilderness therapy as a transformative experience and its influence on Jared’s craftThe role of mentorship and community in passing down traditional skillsThe importance of connecting with nature through fire, ritual, and mindful practiceThe impacts of modern distraction and the restorative power of primitive skillsChapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Jared’s background in primitive skills and archery 02:07 - How family and early experiences ignited Jared’spassion for bow making 05:12 - Primitive bows versus modern bows: connection and peace 06:55 - The relationship with wood and material selection in bow crafting 08:31 - Exploring different bow styles and materials, and future projects 09:48 - Sourcing and working with various wood species for bows 11:07 - How archery practice serves as a meditative and spiritual ritual 12:42 - The role of breath, focus, and flow in shooting 14:15 - Hunting and wilderness experiences in Washington State 15:54 - Jared’s journey through wilderness therapy and its impact on his life 18:25 - Hunting with traditional bows and the emotional connection to animals 21:36 - Jared’s personal workshop and his current projects 22:49 - Crafting with natural materials, including quivers and leatherwork 24:45 - The importance of ritual, fire, and community in personal growth 26:48 - The significance of wilderness therapy in Jared’s story 28:29 - Wilderness work, safety, and personal development experiences 30:43 - The power of shared fire and storytelling in community building 35:17 - Addressing societal disconnection and the value of ritual and craft 36:50 - The role of tradition in overcoming addiction and societal issues 38:25 - Connection to ancestors, the natural world, and the importance of DIY skills 40:03 - Carving as a meditative process and current craft practices 41:42 - Bow design preferences and wood choices in Jared’s work 44:52 - The beauty and significance of horn overlays and traditional adornments 47:54 - Willow basket weaving and foraging for natural materials 50:57 - Jared’s side business and the broader value of primitive skills 51:40 - The philosophy behind "Primitive Alchemist" and the pursuit of harmony with nature 53:36 - Mentorship, legacy, and family influence in traditional craft 54:24 - The approach to designing and selecting staves for bows 57:13 - The process of layout and focusing on grain patterns during carving 58:16 - Tools for bow making: draw knives, rasps, and special tools 59:53 - The value of stave presses and heat correction tools 61:30 - Influence of Pacific Northwest styles and native design elements 64:26 - Local woods like ocean spray and sourcing native materials 67:36 - The inspiration from mentors Pete and Jamie, and the cultural revival through bow crafting 71:31 - Traveling and documenting bowyers worldwide as a spiritual and cultural journey 77:59 - The creative process as a way to find purpose, community, and inner peace 80:13 - Archery as healing, mindfulness, and a link to ancestral practices
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Apr 19, 2026 • 1h 15min

#77 Markus Nystrom on Project Quiver

Markus Nyström is a Swedish bowyer living near Uppsala who carves under the brand of Barrlind Bows. He sources local woods such as juniper and hazel from farms and forests near his home. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Markus Nyström.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/barrlind_bows/https://www.facebook.com/nilsmarkuspilbagar/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Dive into an engaging conversation with Markus Nyström, a Swedish bow maker deeply rooted in forest knowledge, craftsmanship, and sustainable sourcing. Discover how regional forests shape bow making, the importance of local materials, and the philosophy behind this traditional craft.Show Notes:Markus shares his experiences with collecting bow woods in Sweden and the significance of the country's "Allemansrätten" (Right of Public Access).Discussion on the unique properties of Nordic woods like juniper, birch, elm, and how climate and forest management influence wood quality for bows.The impact of forestry practices such as clear-cutting on bow wood availability and the importance of local sourcing and traded staves.Insights into different bow woods: juniper, hazel, elm, and the challenges and benefits of working with them.Techniques and tools for carving soft woods like juniper, including a discussion on minimalism and tool selection.Markus’s journey from making a simple youth bow to professional craftsmanship and the role of passion versus income in his work.The role of environmental consciousness and ethical sourcing in sustainable bow making practices.Cultural distinctions and regional differences in bow materials across Europe and North America.Insights on the future of bow making, personal projects, and how the craft remains a meditative and artistic pursuit.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Marcus and his Scandinavian background 02:00 - Forests of Sweden: Agriculture, wood sources, and the right to roam 04:20 - Finding suitable bow woods in agricultural fields versus forests 06:00 - The significance of old farms and hedgerows for bow staves 08:00 - Types of woods Marcus works with: juniper, hazel, elm, and others 10:30 - Collecting material from fallen trees and old plantations 13:00 - Working soft woods like juniper and carving techniques 15:30 - Making bows: from beginner to professional and the importance of experience 18:00 - Tools of the trade: rasp, razor blades, and minimalism in carving 21:00 - Journey from hobbyist to craftsman: making bows for income versus passion 24:00 - Sourcing materials across Europe and North America—local versus traded staves 28:00 - Environmental considerations and ethical sourcing of bow woods 33:00 - Cultural differences in bow woods across regions and personal preferences 36:00 - Challenges working with certain woods: cracking, drying, and processing 40:00 - The cultural and spiritual aspects of bow making as an art form 45:00 - The future of bow making and community sharing of knowledge 50:00 - Personal passions, art, and the joy of craft 55:00 - Final tips for aspiring bowyers and respecting forest resources
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Apr 13, 2026 • 1h 19min

#76 Steven Bieber on Project Quiver

Steven Bieber is a bowyer based in Florida. Under his brand, Provision Bows, he makes primitive bows for both hunting and target shooting. He is also interested in sustainable food production, herbal medicine, and is a teacher at a Waldorf school. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Steven Bieber.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/provisionlongbows/https://www.youtube.com/@provisionlongbows8881https://www.facebook.com/StevenBieberProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Discover the fascinating world of traditional bow making through an inspiring conversation with Steven Provision, a master bowyer dedicated to craftsmanship, sustainability, and connecting with nature. This episode explores the deep spiritual and cultural significance of bows, the art of working with natural materials, and the journey of self-discovery involved in creating these iconic instruments.Show Notes:Steven's personal journey into bow making inspired by childhood fascination and Native American traditionsThe relationship between wood, spirit, and the bowyer, emphasizing intuition and mindfulnessTechniques and tools for heat bending and shaping bows, including the use of traditional and modern toolsThe importance of sustainable materials like Osage orange, black locust, and red elmThe spiritual and therapeutic benefits of carving and crafting self bowsThe story of a remarkable healing experience with acupuncture and holistic medicineChallenges of teaching sustainable agriculture and instilling respect for nature in studentsThe impact of community, relationships with wood suppliers, and passion for craftsmanshipChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Steven Provision's journey into bow making02:15 - Childhood influences and early experiments with bows04:50 - The revival of bow making for hunting and self-discovery07:10 - Inspiration from Native American crafts and Ed Scott’s legacy10:30 - The spiritual connection with wood and the bowyer’s relationship to nature13:45 - Making a whitetail deer hunting bow from personal experience17:00 - Sustainable practices in agriculture and teaching the next generation19:10 - The healing power of holistic medicine and acupuncture in life stories24:40 - Differences in teaching younger vs. older students about nature27:05 - The importance of relationships with wood suppliers and sourcing materials31:55 - The meticulous process of shaping and tillering bows without pulleys36:23 - The influence of cultural stories and personal history on bow design40:10 - Demonstration of different bow styles and designs with technical details45:30 - Creating bows inspired by animal forms, like the Cape Buffalo49:00 - The use of heat bending, tools, and intuition in crafting bows54:00 - Developing a consistent shooting performance and design philosophies60:00 - Parting thoughts on sustainability, community, and the future of bow making76:50 - Closing remarks and where to find Steven’s work and upcoming book
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Apr 8, 2026 • 52min

#75 Zdenek Lences on Project Quiver

Zdenek Lences of Varangian Bowyer has been making selfbows for nearly 6 years in much the same way our ancestors have made them for thousands of years. Based in the highlands of the Czech Republic, he uses uncommon woods, such as blackthorn, hawthorn, and many more. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Zdenek Lences.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/varangianbowyer/https://varangianbowyer.wordpress.com/https://www.youtube.com/@VarangianBowyerProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Join us for an insightful conversation with Zdenek, a skilled bow maker from the Czech Republic, as he shares his journey into the craft, the challenges of sourcing materials, and his philosophy on tradition and innovation in bow making. Discover the story behind his brand, his favorite woods, and his perspective on archery's deep roots in human history.Show Notes:Zdenek's background in tool renovation and the start of his bow making journey during the COVID pandemicThe variety of woods used for bow crafting, including blackthorn, cherry, elm, and lesser-known speciesChallenges of sourcing materials legally in a small Czech village and environmental considerationsThe philosophy of simplicity versus luxury in bow design, including views on snake-skin overlaysThe influence of European history, castles, festivals, and modern festivals on archery cultureTools and techniques: traditional hand tools, modern machinery, and finishing methodsThe importance of learning from failures and nature in mastering the craftFuture projects, including plans for a new series and ambitions for a workshop and content creationChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Zdenek and his background in Czech Republic 02:25 - Living in a forested area and regional experiences 03:38 - The small community of boyars and their gathering places 04:45 - The origin of the brand name Varenge and Boyar 08:17 - How Zdenek started making bows during COVID 09:54 - The process of selecting suitable woods like cherry, elm, blackthorn 12:02 - Working with lesser-known woods and experimental materials 14:43 - The tools used in bow making, from traditional to modern 17:24 - Struggles with finishes and achieving durability 22:15 - The influence of ancestors and deep-rooted historical connection to archery 24:29 - Modern versus traditional tools and material experimentation 26:11 - Favorite bow styles and inspirations from historical designs 28:00 - Personal preferences on overlays, aesthetics, and craftsmanship philosophy 30:39 - Use of horn overlays, horn types, and logo insights 32:16 - Family involvement and personal background in woodworking 33:54 - Challenges of harvesting wood legally in a small village environment 35:34 - Europe’s medieval festivals and European archery culture 36:21 - Differences in land accessibility and public forests between Europe and North America 39:08 - Favorite tools for bow carving and tool collection 43:11 - Challenges in finishing bows and protecting the grain 45:07 - Preferred finishes and protective treatments 46:00 - Resources and educators that influenced Zdenek’s craft 47:54 - Workshop setup at his parents’ place and future content plans 48:43 - Hunting and practice routines 50:11 - Bows for flight archery and specific woods like hornbeam 52:21 - Future projects including new series and personal goals 53:12 - How to connect with Zdenek online and through festivals 54:40 - Shipping logistics and international markets 56:43 - Closing thoughts and encouragement to follow Zenek’s journey
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Mar 31, 2026 • 50min

#74 Jeremy Weber on Project Quiver

Jeremy Weber is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and hobby bowyer. He and his partner, Gwen, manage The Lodge at Water’s Edge in Portersville, Pennsylvania - a mid century 80-acre micro-venue nestled in the Slippery Rock Gorge bordered by McConnells Mill State Park. Jeremy created Selfbows at Water’s Edge where he offers bow carving experiences with accommodations on the Waters Edge property. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jeremy Weber.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/selfbows_at_waters_edge/https://www.facebook.com/people/Selfbows-at-Waters-Edge/61569938627847/https://www.instagram.com/the_lodge_at_waters_edge/https://www.thelodgeatwatersedge.com/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsShow Notes:Jeremy's story of the old estate and its transformation into a workshop for bow making and retreatsTechniques for harvesting and seasoning various tree species for bow wood, including American hornbeam, hickory, and OsageThe process of splitting and preparing wood using wedges, draw knives, and shellac preservation methodsExploring different bow styles and experimenting with materials like flowering dogwood, cherry, and elmThe significance of shooting both sides in archery for balance and brain healthThe historical perspective on bows from different eras, including a fascinating account of reconstructing a 17th-century Sudbury Native American bow using hand toolsJeremy's upcoming workshops at Waters Edge in September and how to participateChapters:00:00 - Introduction and overview of Waters Edge lodge and Jeremy's background02:24 - Description of the estate and property features including the main lodge, cabins, and creekside pool plans04:12 - The power of nature: ice chunks from river flood and weather impacts on the land05:13 - Bow carving workshops: schedule, group size, and what participants will learn06:20 - Harvesting trees on the property: identifying species and sustainable practices08:09 - Favorite woods for bow making and the unique characteristics of American hornbeam (muscle wood)09:45 - The process of bark removal and how seasonality affects harvesting11:10 - Comparing American hornbeam and hop hornbeam trees and their suitability for bows13:11 - Jeremy’s journey into bow making, family history, and early archery experiences 15:08 - Building bows from different woods and personal experimentation with designs 16:48 - The workshop setup, tools used, and the importance of continual learning in bow craftsmanship 18:33 - On-site accommodations and the structure of a typical bow-making retreat 19:14 - Recommended bow styles for beginners and the forgiving nature of hickory 20:47 - The sequential drying process from felled tree to ready-to-carve stave 22:43 - Techniques for splitting wood with wedges and draw knives, and preserving with shellac 25:41 - Sourcing and working with Osage orange trees outside the property 28:16 - The exciting experience of harvesting Osage from local farms and the snowbound effort 33:16 - Experimentation with different woods like flowering dogwood, cherry, and elm 34:16 - Transition from modern to primitive hunting bows and the spiritual connection in archery 36:11 - Shooting from both sides to develop balance and challenge for the brain 40:23 - Recreating historic bows like the Sudbury bow using traditional tools and techniques 45:43 - Favorite tools for carving and current projects in Jeremy’s workshop 47:02 - Jeremy’s current bow projects, draw weights, and upcoming builds 48:27 - Challenges with snaky grain and the art of following grain patterns for optimal bows 50:02 - Inspiration from historic bows and making your own based on archeological exemplars 55:50 - How to connect with Jeremy and sign up for the September workshop
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Mar 16, 2026 • 1h 10min

#73 Lubo Sojak on Project Quiver

Lubo Sojak is a passionate craftsman and bowyer who has spent over a decade perfecting his bow making skills. Based in Slovakia, Lubo started his journey in archery through a friend's influence, which sparked a lifelong passion for bow making. Every bow he makes is from a stave that he has personally harvested and seasoned. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Lubo Sojak.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/lubosojak/https://www.facebook.com/people/Luky-L-S/100063498604883/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd interviews Lubo Sojak, a bowyer from Slovakia, who shares his journey into the world of archery and bow making. Lubo discusses his beginnings, the philosophy behind his craft, and the community of bow makers. He emphasizes the importance of tradition while also valuing innovation in bow making. The conversation also touches on the types of wood he prefers to use and the challenges of harvesting materials in Slovakia. In this conversation, Lubo and Todd delve into the intricacies of bow making, discussing various wood types, their properties, and personal experiences in crafting bows. They explore the significance of rot-resistant woods, the challenges and techniques involved in bow crafting, and the importance of learning from others in the bowyer community. The dialogue also touches on the environmental aspects of bow making, the journey of learning and perfecting the craft, and the diverse styles and methods employed by different bowyers.Show Notes:Lubo does not identify as an archer but as a bow maker.His journey into archery began with a friend's bow.Bow making is a hobby for Lubo, not a profession.He finds peace and joy in the process of making bows.Lubo enjoys sharing his knowledge with others in the bow making community.He prefers using local woods like mulberry and black locust for bow making.Lubo emphasizes the importance of learning from failures in his craft.He believes tradition in bow making is built over time and through experience.The bow making community is supportive and generous across borders.Lubo harvests all his own wood, valuing the connection to his materials. Lubo discusses the challenges of identifying different wood types for bow making.Black locust is noted for its hardness and suitability for fence posts.Rot-resistant woods are commonly used for making durable bows.Personal experiences with various woods enhance the bow crafting process.The environment in Slovakia provides ample resources for bowyers.The journey of learning from different bowyers is invaluable.Different bowyers have unique techniques and styles in crafting bows.Perfection in bow making is subjective and varies among bowyers.The importance of accepting imperfections in crafted bows is highlighted.Community and sharing knowledge among bowyers enrich the craft.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Lubo Sojak and Archery03:03 The Journey into Bow Making05:48 Hobby vs. Profession: The Bowyer's Life08:59 The Philosophy of Bow Making12:13 Community and Culture in Bow Making15:05 Tradition vs. Innovation in Bow Making18:14 Favorite Bow Types and Techniques20:54 Wood Selection and Harvesting Techniques30:46 Exploring Wood Types for Bow Making33:39 The Role of Rot-Resistant Woods36:20 Personal Experiences with Different Woods41:25 The Environment and Resources for Bowyers44:09 The Journey of Bow Making and Learning51:12 Diverse Techniques and Styles in Bow Making59:00 The Art of Perfection in Bow Crafting
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Feb 11, 2026 • 57min

#72 Christopher Applewhaite on Project Quiver

Christopher Applewhaite is a physician, bow hunter, and amateur bowyer living on Salt Spring Island on Canada’s west coast. In his workshop overlooking the Salish Sea, he can be found carving bows mostly from yew wood that he has harvested. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Christopher Applewhaite.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/oshosibows/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd and Christopher Applewhaite delve into the art of bow carving, exploring its therapeutic benefits, the challenges of sourcing wood, and the intimate connection to nature that comes with hunting. Christopher shares his personal journey into bow making, the importance of community support, and his aspirations for the future of his craft. The discussion highlights the craftsmanship involved in bow making, the tools and techniques used, and the ethical considerations surrounding hunting practices.Show Notes:Christopher Applewhaite is a bowyer and archery enthusiast.His journey into bow carving began as a personal interest and evolved into a family project.Bow carving serves as a therapeutic outlet for many, including Christopher.The connection to nature is a significant aspect of hunting and bow making.Community support is vital in the bow making craft.Sourcing quality wood for bow making is becoming increasingly challenging.Tools like draw knives and rasps are essential in the bow carving process.Hunting with traditional bows offers a unique and intimate experience with nature.Sustainability and ethical practices are important in hunting.Christopher aims to continue improving his craft and sharing it with others.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Christopher Applewhaite03:41 The Journey of Bow Carving06:46 Therapeutic Aspects of Bow Making and Archery09:33 Personal Background and Connection to Nature12:33 The Craft of Bow Making15:34 Community and Collaboration in Bow Making18:30 Challenges of Sourcing Bow Wood21:42 Tools and Techniques in Bow Carving24:34 Hunting Experiences and Practices27:40 Sustainability and Ethical Hunting30:29 Future Aspirations in Bow Making33:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Feb 3, 2026 • 1h 27min

#71 Paul Comstock on Project Quiver

Paul Comstock is a legendary bowyer who began carving more than 40 years ago. Along with coauthors of The Traditional Bowyer’s Bible, he helped spark a resurgence in primitive archery and bow making. Prior to contributing to all 4 volumes of the Bowyer’s Bible, Paul wrote the popular book The Bent Stick. He has served as a mentor and role model for many of today’s most respected bowyers, and he continues to carve bows from his home in Ohio. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Paul Comstock.          Episode Links: The Traditional Bowyer’s BibleProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd and Comstock delve into the intricacies of bow making, focusing on the Perry Reflex bow design, the differences between wooden and laminated bows, and the importance of tillering and testing bow performance. Comstock shares personal experiences and insights on how to effectively measure and adjust bow performance, emphasizing the significance of attention to detail in the bow-making process. The discussion also touches on common misconceptions in archery and the value of traditional techniques in modern bow making.Show Notes:The Perry Reflex bow design is unique and effective.Thickness taper is crucial for bow performance.Fiberglass laminated bows have different characteristics than wooden bows.Confusion exists about what constitutes a wooden bow.Using hickory backings requires careful consideration of bow length.Measuring bow performance is essential for safety and effectiveness.Tiller process can be done without elaborate equipment.Attention to detail is key in bow making.Proof testing can help ensure bow integrity.Success in bow making comes from experience and careful practice.Chapters:00:00 Initial Clarifications09:32 Understanding the Perry Reflex Bow15:24 Wooden vs. Laminated Bows26:21 Measuring and Testing Bow Performance32:58 Tiller Process and Techniques42:35 Final Thoughts on Bow Making and Proof Testing

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