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Salish Wolf: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Todd Howard
Inspired by the lone wolf Takaya who thrived for nearly a decade on a tiny archipelago in the Salish Sea, showing us even the most unlikely is possible. Season 1: Stories of extraordinary endeavors that capture the magic of the human spirit. Season 2: Based on Project Quiver, the incredible father-daughter journey around the globe to capture the art and lives of the world's finest bowyers, the torchbearers carrying on the legacy of primitive archery.
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- 2 weeks ago1h 1m
#99 Tommy Leach on Project Quiver
Tommy Leach is a bowyer in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and a founding member of the Oklahoma Selfbow Society. With their marquis event known as OJAM, they are helping to preserve the legacy of primitive archery. Tommy has been carving selfbows for more than three decades. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Tommy Leach. Episode Links: https://www.okselfbow.com/FacebookProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this episode, Tommy Leach shares his passion for primitive archery, bow carving, and the preservation of traditional bow-making techniques. Discover insights into the craft, the importance of heritage, and tips for aspiring bowyers.Show Notes:The mission of preserving primitive archery heritageThe process and challenges of bow carvingThe significance of specific woods like Osage and black locustTips for aspiring bowyers and the importance of mentorshipThe role of events like O Jam in education and preservationThe impact of archery on personal life and familyHistorical styles and modern adaptations of bowsResources and community support for bow makingChapters:00:00 Introduction to Tommy Leach and Primitive Archery03:25 The Mission of Preserving Heritage in Bowcraft04:26 Getting Started in Bow Carving and Primitive Archery08:44 The Evolution of Bow Design and Wood Choices15:03 Challenges in Bow Carving and Heat Bending Techniques19:58 The Role of Community Events in Heritage Preservation25:19 The Significance of Beauty and Function in Bow Making30:03 Personal Impact of Bow Carving and Archery35:26 Mentorship and Resources for Aspiring Bowyers39:47 Future Goals and Styles in Bow Crafting45:09 Overcoming Challenges in Bow Construction49:49 Signature Characteristics of Tommy Leach Bows54:53 Connecting with the Archery Community and Events59:41 Closing Remarks and Next Steps for Enthusiasts
- 3 weeks ago1h 16m
#98 Jake Fenwick on Project Quiver
Jake Fenwick of Fenwick Bows is a bowyer in New Brunswick, Canada, with a strong interest in the history of bows, especially English longbows. His recent stopover to examine the Mary Rose bows in England was a highlight of a recent trip to he took to Norway to harvest yew staves. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jake Fenwick. Episode Links: https://www.fenwickbows.com/https://www.instagram.com/fenwickbowsFenwick Bows on FaceBookProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this episode, Jake and Todd discuss the fascinating world of historical bows, wood selection, and Jake’s recent expeditions to Norway for stave harvesting. They explore the craftsmanship of the Mary Rose bows, the properties of lemon wood, and practical insights into traditional bow-making techniques. In this episode, Jake and Todd explore the art of bow making, the importance of harvesting the right wood, and the deep connection between nature and craftsmanship. They share personal stories, practical tips, and cultural insights from their experiences in Scandinavia and North America.Show Notes:Analysis of Mary Rose bows and their constructionProperties and harvesting of lemon wood for bowsHeat treatment and tool marks on ancient bowsHistorical bow design and military applicationsChallenges of stave harvesting in NorwayDifferences in wood growth and ring structure in tropical vs. northern climatesThe role of side knocks and horn fittings in bowsThe significance of wood grain and density in bow performance The importance of harvesting the right wood for bowsPersonal stories of sourcing and selecting bow stavesCultural insights from Scandinavian and North American communitiesThe patience required in traditional bow makingThe connection between nature, trees, and craftsmanshipChapters:00:00 Introduction and guest background00:04 Introduction to Bow Making and Wood Harvesting02:05 Todd's recent surfing and jujitsu routine03:55 Update on Todd's shop and stave storage04:05 Personal Stories of Sourcing Bow Staves in Scandinavia05:59 Properties of lemon wood and growth ring structure08:04 Analysis of the Mary Rose bows and tool marks10:10 The Significance of Tree Selection and Observation11:50 Heat treatment evidence on ancient bows14:56 The Challenges and Rewards of Harvesting Laburnum15:59 Signs of reworking and horn knock placement19:52 Historical bow draw weights and military use20:17 Cultural Insights: Scandinavian Communities and Traditions23:48 Wood grain, density, and performance factors24:49 The Patience and Time Required in Bow Craftsmanship28:08 Tool marks and craftsmanship details30:07 The Connection Between Trees and the Bowyer's Craft32:04 Jake's recent stave harvesting expedition in Norway35:00 Community, Sharing, and Passing Down Traditions35:56 Norwegian landscape, geography, and harvesting challenges39:53 Wildlife encounters and landscape similarities40:13 Practical Tips for Harvesting and Selecting Wood42:01 Shipping and import restrictions for raw lumber44:52 Reflections on Nature and the Craftsmanship Journey
- Oct 1, 20261h 8m
#97 Joe Giago on Project Quiver
Joe Giago is skilled bowyer from the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and an enrolled member the Oglala Sioux tribe. Joe began his bow-making journey over 15 years ago from the encouragement of an uncle and has been carving beautiful replica Native American bows every since.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Joe Giago. Episode Links: Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this episode, Joe Giago shares his deep knowledge of traditional bow making, the history of the bow in indigenous cultures, and the cultural significance of archery among the Plains tribes. Discover how ancient techniques, materials, and stories shape modern practices and cultural preservation.Show Notes:History of the bow in indigenous culturesMaterials used in traditional bow makingCultural significance of archery among Plains tribesTechniques for harvesting and preparing woodArrowhead types and their historical contextInfluence of horses on bow design and useTraditional and modern bow finishing methodsStorytelling and art in bow decorationThe role of archery in cultural identity and educationChapters:00:00 Introduction and guest background00:04 Joe Giago's journey into bow making00:31 Historical origins of the bow in Plains tribes01:42 The evolution of bow design with the introduction of the horse05:09 The continued relationship with horses today07:11 Ancient evidence of bows and arrowheads09:57 The genesis of bow use: hunting, war, and culture11:04 Influences from other cultures and origins of bow styles17:49 Materials used in traditional bows: wood types and sourcing19:17 Design variations: flat vs. D-shaped bows24:25 Use of animal materials like horn and sinew36:37 String making, repair, and maintenance48:33 Finishing, decorating, and artwork on bows54:57 The cultural importance of archery today57:16 Teaching and passing down bow making skills01:00:08 Impact of archery on family and community01:04:55 Opportunities and cultural preservation through bow making
- Sep 24, 20261h 9m
#96 Holger Berty on Project Quiver
Holger Berty has been a professional bowyer for nearly two decades. Based in Germany, he was introduced to bow carving by a friend. Holger's approach to bow making is eclectic, exploring various styles—from primitive bows to modern laminated designs.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Holger Berty. Episode Links: https://berty-bogenbau.de/index.htmlhttps://www.instagram.com/bogenbauberty/https://www.youtube.com/@bogenbaubertyProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Holger Berty shares his journey from woodworking and therapy to becoming a full-time bow maker, exploring traditional and modern bow building techniques, materials, and the meditative aspects of archery.Show Notes:Holger's background in woodworking and ergotherapyTransition to full-time bow makingDifferences between primitive and laminated bowsMaterials used in bow building, including sustainable optionsDesign considerations for modern and traditional bowsThe role of archery in Holger’s life and therapyTools and techniques for bow tillering and shapingInfluence of cultural bow styles and historyThe importance of experience and trial-and-error in craftsmanshipInspiration from other bowyers and the global bow communityChapters:00:00 Introduction to Holger Berty and his background02:01 Holger's journey from therapy to bow making04:01 Differences between primitive and laminated bows05:57 Materials and sustainability in bow building09:00 Design elements of modern laminated bows13:09 The role of archery in Holger’s life16:53 Cultural influences and historical bow styles21:07 Tools and techniques for bow shaping and tillering25:57 The significance of wood selection and sourcing29:53 Learning from other bowyers and continuous experimentation34:54 The balance between craftsmanship and business39:04 The spiritual and therapeutic aspects of bow making43:59 Favorite woods and their performance in bows49:58 Archery as a meditative and social activity54:14 Future inspirations and community in bow making
- Sep 15, 20261h 48m
#95 Gerhard Wiesler on Project Quiver
Gerhard Wiesler is a bowyer living on a 200-year-old farm near Weiz, Austria, where he has nut orchards of walnuts, chestnuts, and pecans. He is a prolific teacher, guiding hundreds of students yearly in the building of selfbows. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Gerhard Wiesler. Episode Links: https://www.meinbogen.at/https://www.facebook.com/BogenbauGerhardWieslerProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:Gerhard Wiesler shares his journey into traditional bow making, the art of crafting self bows, and the cultural significance of archery and martial arts. Discover insights into the craftsmanship, experimentation, and traditions behind this timeless craft. Gerhard and Todd discuss the art of bow making, focusing on different woods, workshop processes, and the impact of forest management on bow making materials.Show Notes:Gerhard Wiesler's background and journey into bow makingThe process of crafting self bows from a single piece of woodExperimentation with different bow designs and woodsThe tradition and cultural significance of archery in Japan and EuropeThe role of workshops and teaching in Gerhard's craftChallenges of selling handmade bows within European consumer rightsThe influence of martial arts on archery practice and philosophyInnovative techniques like bamboo wedges and fire arrows U wood differences between Europe and Pacific NorthwestImpact of forest management on bow wood qualityWorkshop process for building bows from selection to finishingDesign considerations including bow length, draw weight, and aestheticsMaterial choices for handles, arrow shelves, and stringsChapters:03:06 - The spontaneous round-the-world trip that changed everything08:01 - Why the family chose to keep homeschooling during travel11:19 - Mika Wolf and the Austrian bowmaking scene13:47 - What counts as a professional bowyer16:10 - Japanese dojo culture and slow apprenticeship19:17 - Martial arts, archery, and embodied practice21:04 - Rambo 2 and Gerhard’s explosive start in archery22:28 - Making flaming arrows and archery fireworks24:14 - From compound bows to self bows25:13 - A failed first bow and the start of serious bowmaking27:00 - Burning finished bows as a ritual29:30 - Why Gerhard only builds self bows31:45 - Consumer warranty issues for handcrafted bows in Europe33:39 - Why workshops are better than custom commissions35:26 - Experimenting with different bow woods and designs36:22 - Performance, comfort, and the Yumi bow41:19 - Bamboo backing and the Japanese rope-and-wedge method42:20 - One-day and two-day workshop formats45:08 - First bows made from Pacific yew46:50 - Humidity problems in Costa Rica and switching materials48:14 - Success with knotty yew staves49:00 - European yew versus Pacific yew52:22 - Yew as a demanding wood and workshop success rates53:42 - Shipping staves and sourcing osage from the US55:23 - Ash, black locust, and hickory for workshops57:37 - Stave logistics and why he buys dried bow wood61:13 - The Redwoods and the feeling of standing among giants62:24 - How many workshops Gerhard teaches each year63:08 - Where his students come from66:47 - Walking through a full workshop from start to finish68:02 - Manau as the wood used for horse bows69:22 - Choosing bow wood by type and personality70:58 - Horse bow dimensions and strong draw weights74:27 - Choosing draw weight for beginners77:19 - Women, men, and learning style differences in archery79:52 - Bow length, performance, and tradeoffs80:22 - Rough shaping with hand tools84:31 - Handle shaping, 50 test shots, and checking limb balance85:57 - Finish options: sanding, oiling, painting, and wraps86:45 - Shelves, horse bows, and tradition88:42 - Arrow passes and decorative inlays89:30 - Strings, arrows, and cedar shaft preferences91:45 - Gerhard’s informal success guarantee and free repeat workshops
- Sep 7, 20261h 31m
#94 Jay St. Charles on Project Quiver
Jay St. Charles is a legendary bowyer based in Fall City, Washington. While he was born into the world of archery and grew up in his father’s archery shop, Jay eventually became a master bowyer, carving bows under the brand of Pacific Yew Longbows. He lives on a small homestead above the Snoqualmie River Valley, nestled in the foothills of the Cascades.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jay St. Charles. Episode Links: https://www.facebook.com/pacyew2Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummaryIn this episode, Jay St. Charles shares his extensive experience in bow making, archery history, and the unique challenges of sourcing traditional materials like yew wood. Discover the evolution of archery equipment, the art of crafting bows, and the importance of community and preservation in this timeless craft.Show Notes:Jay St. Charles's background in archery and bow makingThe history and significance of yew wood in bow makingChallenges in sourcing traditional bow materials todayThe process of crafting primitive and laminated bowsThe community and culture of archery and bowyersTools and techniques for carving and tillering bowsThe impact of logging and environmental policies on bow makingThe evolution from traditional to modern archery equipmentEducational programs and classes in bow makingThe importance of preserving archery heritage and craftsmanshipChapters:00:00 Introduction and Jay’s background in archery02:01 Jay’s homestead and early experiences in bow making03:51 Mountaineering adventures and outdoor passions06:50 History of bow making and the influence of Fred Bear10:00 The rise of fiberglass and compound bows15:05 The renaissance of wooden bows and community19:53 The story of yew wood and environmental challenges25:01 Permits, salvage, and sourcing yew today29:54 The cultural significance of yew in different regions34:55 Tools and techniques for primitive bow carving39:46 Jay’s classes and community involvement45:11 The joy of making and shooting bows50:11 The future of bow making and preservation59:51 Closing thoughts and resources for bowyers
- Sep 2, 20261h 13m
#93 David Young on Project Quiver
David Young is the proprietor of Big Rock Bows based south of Spokane, Washington. David was introduced to primitive archery and bow carving more than a decade ago from his friend, renowned bowyer Clay Hayes. Since then, he has carved his own reputation as an exceptional bowyer and regularly hosts bow carving retreats at his ranch, Big Rock Ranch. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with David Young. Episode Links: https://www.bigrockbows.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582085921443https://www.instagram.com/bigrockbows/https://www.youtube.com/@DavidYoung-fc6qlProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummaryIn this episode, David from Big Rock Bows shares his journey into traditional bow making, his experience on the show Alone, and his passion for bowcraft and the outdoors. Discover insights into bow building, land management, and inspiring youth engagement in nature.Show Notes:David's background in bow making and land managementExperience on the TV show Alone and lessons learnedTechniques and tools for traditional bow buildingLand management and land restoration effortsYouth engagement and outdoor education initiativesChallenges and rewards of custom bow makingThe role of patience and character in craftsmanshipInspiration from natural materials and land for bow makingFuture plans for workshops and retreatsChapters:00:00 Introduction to David and Big Rock Bows02:02 Land and Land Management on the Property05:04 Bow Wood Options and Land Resources09:47 Experience on the TV Show Alone20:01 Lessons from the Arctic Adventure29:59 Bow Making Techniques and Tools40:00 Challenges in Custom Bow Building50:07 Engaging Youth and Outdoor Education59:56 Workshops and Future Plans01:09:58 Philosophy and Personal Insights on Bowcraft
- Aug 27, 20261h 32m
#92 Kevin Hawkins on Project Quiver
Kevin Hawkins is a bowyer based in North Carolina and moderator and owner of the Primitive Archer Forum. He recently took over the Forum from the founders to preserve the community that has given so much to him as a bowyer and plans to maintain and update it so it can continue to be a valuable resource to bowyers.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Kevin Hawkins. Episode Links: https://www.facebook.com/primitivearchermagazinehttps://www.primitivearcher.com/Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummaryIn this episode, Kevin shares his journey from carving his first bow out of a sapling in Oklahoma to becoming a renowned bowyer specializing in Osage. We explore his techniques, flight shooting records, and the passion that keeps him crafting bows in his workshop. In this episode, Kevin shares his innovative approach to bow making, including how he minimizes set and maximizes performance through scientific principles and practical techniques. Todd and Kevin also discuss the importance of community, preservation of craft, and future projects like the Primitive Archer forum and a groundbreaking book on bowyers worldwide.Show Notes:Kevin's background and journey into bow makingTechniques for carving and shaping Osage orange bowsHis experience with flight shooting recordsThe importance of craftsmanship and materials in bow makingThe role of tradition and innovation in archery Kevin's method for achieving perfect tiller and no-set bowsThe role of surface area and density in bow performanceUse of a custom bow set calculator and appCommunity efforts to preserve primitive archery craftKevin's travel and mentorship experiences with top bowyersFuture projects including the Primitive Archer forum and magazineChapters:00:00 Introduction and Kevin's Workshop Tour01:50 Kevin's Background and How He Started Making Bows05:02 Carving the First Bow from a Sapling07:54 His Experience with Flight Shooting Records12:02 Materials and Techniques for Bow Making16:02 Using Osage Orange and Other Woods20:06 Hunting and Archery Practice23:59 The Journey of Harvesting and Preparing Osage Logs29:59 Tools and Power Tools in Bow Making35:03 The Meditative and Therapeutic Aspects of Crafting Bows39:59 Community and Competitions in Archery44:54 Future Projects and Goals in Bow Making
About Salish Wolf
Inspired by the lone wolf Takaya who thrived for nearly a decade on a tiny archipelago in the Salish Sea, showing us even the most unlikely is possible. Season 1: Stories of extraordinary endeavors that capture the magic of the human spirit. Season 2: Based on Project Quiver, the incredible father-daughter journey around the globe to capture the art and lives of the world's finest bowyers, the torchbearers carrying on the legacy of primitive archery.
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