Got an itch that needs scratching

[TimS]

Willy,

As some of my other posts on here indicate I am a great fan of Pip Bickerstaffe and his team at Kegworth.

See www.bickerstaffebows.co.uk and if possible call in and see them at the factory (J25 on M1) - an educational experience.

Not the cheapest bowyer but an excellent product as my club (longbow only) colleagues - many of whom shoot his bows- will testify.

I shoot one of his Classic Bows (55lb@28"/60lb@30") and, over a year into it, I am absolutely delighted with its performance and have no problem with distance on the disciplines we shoot and some of the 'big boys' events.

Brgds

TimS

[Miner Willy]

Cheers TimS,

I must admit I've been an admirer of the Bickerstaff bow for some time now and never heard anyone say a bad word about them. They are as you say expensive and a little to much for my budget unfortunately, I simply don't have the willpower to save up for longer .

I think I'll try and take a look at a Bakewell Elite S.

With all the current GNAS debate(?) about reflex/deflex bows does any one know if it is GNAS/BLBS legal? I don't want to spend a load of cash to find I can't shoot it in competitions.

Has anyone else got a bow from Keith Rayner of Yew Tree Archery if so what does it shoot like. The prices seem very reasonable for the number and types of laminates used.

[gino]

I've got a Keith Rayner bow.

It's great value for money and I've had no major problems with it since having it from february. Service is good too.

[Miner Willy]

Cheers for all the responses. I emailed three bowyers, one quite a well known one too and only got a response from one.

Keith from Yewtree Archery called me up to discuss my requirements, which we discussed at length. In about 5 weeks time I can go and pick from a series of bows that he will make to my needs. I'm quite lucky that I'm pretty average when it comes to the poundage I use so he can always sell the others that I don't want.

He seems to be a really nice, genuine kinda guy, I look forward to meeting him and my new longbow. I'll let you know how it all goes in a few weeks time.

[cloutman360]

Malcolm Grady at Grimsby

[wingate_52]

I have just seen a Bakewell Bow disintegrate. Not nice, and not even at full draw.

[Miner Willy]

A friend of mine is building quite a nice collection of kindling up. I tried the first bow he made. It was supposed to be about 40lb, ended up been about 16-20lb ! It had been tillered to 28 inches, I drew it and on the second arrow it went BANG! breaking up in my face which was nice

With a Bakewell bow breaking it just goes to prove that even the best bowyers can get it wrong.

EDIT: About 2 weeks to go until I get my new stick, I can't wait!!!