Riser question

[ollieolson]

I just purchased "you finish" longbow from woodbows.com. It's a nice looking bow, but it doesn't have any sort of riser or handle. I want to cut in an arrow shelf, but am worried about the bow breaking if there is no extra support from a handle or riser. Is this something to worry about, or can I cut it in with no worries? If I do have to put a riser on, what is a good glue to use?
~Ollie

[Jacko]

I am not familiar with the "you finish " kits but in general terms unless a selfbows riser is thick enough to be ridgid when drawn it is not good practice to cut in arrow shelves and even then only shallow . A better option in my veiw is to glue layers of leather or cork onto the side of the riser to act as an arrow shelf then wrap or mould leather around it and either glue or sew the leather grip into place around the built up arrow shelf . Properly done this is an attractive and functional grip shelf option .

I have shot selfbows off my hand for years and with properly spined arrows unless you make a HUUUUGE mistake on release the arrow will not touch your hand and it is just as accurate so long as you place your hand in the same spot each shot .

If you post a picture of the you finish kit I am sure plenty of people about here could answer if it's suitable to cut in an arrow shelf .

regards Jacko