There are some of you interested in making composite bows using the tried-and-true Hickory for backing laminations. Recently I emailed Jim Boswell of Rudderbows Archery and asked the question of availability and pricing. Here is Jim's reply to my question -
Dennis,
For hickory laminations we can sell them directly in lots of 10 or more for the wholesale costs. It would save money for you if you were able to do that. Wholesale in lots of 10 is $9 each. That a lot better than the normal retail of $15 to $20 from the retailers. . It a pity that the shipping costs more than the products via UPS. You could contact us directly for the wholesale lots. You can also get them from Crows head outfitters, 3 rivers archery or Kustom King.
Jim K Boswell
Rudderbows Archery
Psalm 23
509-933-3051
My next question -Jim,
That is a very handy piece of advice. Do you mind if I let a few people know about that on Ozbow? I am sure that there would be a good few who would be glad of that. Also, have you ever thought about sending them through the USPS? I have gotten quite a few 72" bows from eBay to add to my collection and they were all sent via USPS Priority Paid International ranging from $55 - $85 US which is very reasonable. The length wasn't a problem at all. I just asked the eBay seller to ship the bow that way and they just took the bow to the PO and they accepted it without issue. It may help you lower your shipping costs a bit for your business. Just a thought.
Kind regards,
Dennis
And Jim's further reply -That’s quite alright to let everyone in Ozland to know. Yes have tried USPS, but, they will not accept anything over 60” here. Not sure why, but, it really holds us back from selling overseas. Wish we had a dealer over there. I know that some USPS offices accept pieces longer than 60”, but, not here for some reason.
Jim K Boswell
Rudderbows Archery
Psalm 23
509-933-3051
My next question -Jim,
Strange how that works with some POs and not others. I will let everyone know on Ozbow which is our local trad archery site. I know of another 2 blokes who may be interested in the 10 strips deal. The three of us could put in an order and share the shipping costs. Also, Ozland is the sign language our deaf people use here. By the way, what thickness are the Hickory lams?
Regards,
Dennis
And Jim's reply -Dennis,
They are roughly 1/8” thick give or take a little bit. Sometimes we have to cut off a hair more than other times depending on overall thickness of the raw material we are extracting the strips from.
Jim K Boswell
Rudderbows Archery
Psalm 23
509-933-3051
I hope this is useful to Ozbow bowyers. Because Jim is unable to ship by United States Postal Service, it is worth considering a few bowyers putting in a joint order. Even a larger order than 10 strips may not increase the shipping cost too much if at all. Jim's contact details are on the Rudderbows website if you google it.