Salish Wolf

Todd N. Howard
  • 4.7 (11)
  • Crafts
  • Updated Biweekly

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.

  1. 4d ago

    #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/fenwickbows Fenwick Bows on FaceBook Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: 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 construction Properties and harvesting of lemon wood for bows Heat treatment and tool marks on ancient bows Historical bow design and military applications Challenges of stave harvesting in Norway Differences in wood growth and ring structure in tropical vs. northern climates The role of side knocks and horn fittings in bows The significance of wood grain and density in bow performance The importance of harvesting the right wood for bows Personal stories of sourcing and selecting bow staves Cultural insights from Scandinavian and North American communities The patience required in traditional bow making The connection between nature, trees, and craftsmanship Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and guest background 00:04 Introduction to Bow Making and Wood Harvesting 02:05 Todd's recent surfing and jujitsu routine 03:55 Update on Todd's shop and stave storage 04:05 Personal Stories of Sourcing Bow Staves in Scandinavia 05:59 Properties of lemon wood and growth ring structure 08:04 Analysis of the Mary Rose bows and tool marks 10:10 The Significance of Tree Selection and Observation 11:50 Heat treatment evidence on ancient bows 14:56 The Challenges and Rewards of Harvesting Laburnum 15:59 Signs of reworking and horn knock placement 19:52 Historical bow draw weights and military use 20:17 Cultural Insights: Scandinavian Communities and Traditions 23:48 Wood grain, density, and performance factors 24:49 The Patience and Time Required in Bow Craftsmanship 28:08 Tool marks and craftsmanship details 30:07 The Connection Between Trees and the Bowyer's Craft 32:04 Jake's recent stave harvesting expedition in Norway 35:00 Community, Sharing, and Passing Down Traditions 35:56 Norwegian landscape, geography, and harvesting challenges 39:53 Wildlife encounters and landscape similarities 40:13 Practical Tips for Harvesting and Selecting Wood 42:01 Shipping and import restrictions for raw lumber 44:52 Reflections on Nature and the Craftsmanship Journey

    #98 Jake Fenwick on Project Quiver

  2. Oct 1

    #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 Expeditions Summary: 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 cultures Materials used in traditional bow making Cultural significance of archery among Plains tribes Techniques for harvesting and preparing wood Arrowhead types and their historical context Influence of horses on bow design and use Traditional and modern bow finishing methods Storytelling and art in bow decoration The role of archery in cultural identity and education Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and guest background 00:04 Joe Giago's journey into bow making 00:31 Historical origins of the bow in Plains tribes 01:42 The evolution of bow design with the introduction of the horse 05:09 The continued relationship with horses today 07:11 Ancient evidence of bows and arrowheads 09:57 The genesis of bow use: hunting, war, and culture 11:04 Influences from other cultures and origins of bow styles 17:49 Materials used in traditional bows: wood types and sourcing 19:17 Design variations: flat vs. D-shaped bows 24:25 Use of animal materials like horn and sinew 36:37 String making, repair, and maintenance 48:33 Finishing, decorating, and artwork on bows 54:57 The cultural importance of archery today 57:16 Teaching and passing down bow making skills 01:00:08 Impact of archery on family and community 01:04:55 Opportunities and cultural preservation through bow making

    #97 Joe Giago on Project Quiver

  3. Sep 24

    #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.html https://www.instagram.com/bogenbauberty/ https://www.youtube.com/@bogenbauberty Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: 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 ergotherapy Transition to full-time bow making Differences between primitive and laminated bows Materials used in bow building, including sustainable options Design considerations for modern and traditional bows The role of archery in Holger’s life and therapy Tools and techniques for bow tillering and shaping Influence of cultural bow styles and history The importance of experience and trial-and-error in craftsmanship Inspiration from other bowyers and the global bow community Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Holger Berty and his background 02:01 Holger's journey from therapy to bow making 04:01 Differences between primitive and laminated bows 05:57 Materials and sustainability in bow building 09:00 Design elements of modern laminated bows 13:09 The role of archery in Holger’s life 16:53 Cultural influences and historical bow styles 21:07 Tools and techniques for bow shaping and tillering 25:57 The significance of wood selection and sourcing 29:53 Learning from other bowyers and continuous experimentation 34:54 The balance between craftsmanship and business 39:04 The spiritual and therapeutic aspects of bow making 43:59 Favorite woods and their performance in bows 49:58 Archery as a meditative and social activity 54:14 Future inspirations and community in bow making

    #96 Holger Berty on Project Quiver

  4. Sep 15

    #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/BogenbauGerhardWiesler Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: 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 making The process of crafting self bows from a single piece of wood Experimentation with different bow designs and woods The tradition and cultural significance of archery in Japan and Europe The role of workshops and teaching in Gerhard's craft Challenges of selling handmade bows within European consumer rights The influence of martial arts on archery practice and philosophy Innovative techniques like bamboo wedges and fire arrows U wood differences between Europe and Pacific Northwest Impact of forest management on bow wood quality Workshop process for building bows from selection to finishing Design considerations including bow length, draw weight, and aesthetics Material choices for handles, arrow shelves, and strings Chapters: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

    #95 Gerhard Wiesler on Project Quiver

  5. Sep 7

    #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/pacyew2 Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary In 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 making The history and significance of yew wood in bow making Challenges in sourcing traditional bow materials today The process of crafting primitive and laminated bows The community and culture of archery and bowyers Tools and techniques for carving and tillering bows The impact of logging and environmental policies on bow making The evolution from traditional to modern archery equipment Educational programs and classes in bow making The importance of preserving archery heritage and craftsmanship Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Jay’s background in archery 02:01 Jay’s homestead and early experiences in bow making 03:51 Mountaineering adventures and outdoor passions 06:50 History of bow making and the influence of Fred Bear 10:00 The rise of fiberglass and compound bows 15:05 The renaissance of wooden bows and community 19:53 The story of yew wood and environmental challenges 25:01 Permits, salvage, and sourcing yew today 29:54 The cultural significance of yew in different regions 34:55 Tools and techniques for primitive bow carving 39:46 Jay’s classes and community involvement 45:11 The joy of making and shooting bows 50:11 The future of bow making and preservation 59:51 Closing thoughts and resources for bowyers

    #94 Jay St. Charles on Project Quiver

  6. Sep 2

    #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=61582085921443 https://www.instagram.com/bigrockbows/ https://www.youtube.com/@DavidYoung-fc6ql Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary In 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 management Experience on the TV show Alone and lessons learned Techniques and tools for traditional bow building Land management and land restoration efforts Youth engagement and outdoor education initiatives Challenges and rewards of custom bow making The role of patience and character in craftsmanship Inspiration from natural materials and land for bow making Future plans for workshops and retreats Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to David and Big Rock Bows 02:02 Land and Land Management on the Property 05:04 Bow Wood Options and Land Resources 09:47 Experience on the TV Show Alone 20:01 Lessons from the Arctic Adventure 29:59 Bow Making Techniques and Tools 40:00 Challenges in Custom Bow Building 50:07 Engaging Youth and Outdoor Education 59:56 Workshops and Future Plans 01:09:58 Philosophy and Personal Insights on Bowcraft

    #93 David Young on Project Quiver

  7. Aug 27

    #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/primitivearchermagazine https://www.primitivearcher.com/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary In 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 making Techniques for carving and shaping Osage orange bows His experience with flight shooting records The importance of craftsmanship and materials in bow making The role of tradition and innovation in archery Kevin's method for achieving perfect tiller and no-set bows The role of surface area and density in bow performance Use of a custom bow set calculator and app Community efforts to preserve primitive archery craft Kevin's travel and mentorship experiences with top bowyers Future projects including the Primitive Archer forum and magazine Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Kevin's Workshop Tour 01:50 Kevin's Background and How He Started Making Bows 05:02 Carving the First Bow from a Sapling 07:54 His Experience with Flight Shooting Records 12:02 Materials and Techniques for Bow Making 16:02 Using Osage Orange and Other Woods 20:06 Hunting and Archery Practice 23:59 The Journey of Harvesting and Preparing Osage Logs 29:59 Tools and Power Tools in Bow Making 35:03 The Meditative and Therapeutic Aspects of Crafting Bows 39:59 Community and Competitions in Archery 44:54 Future Projects and Goals in Bow Making

    #92 Kevin Hawkins on Project Quiver

  8. Aug 20

    #91 Jaap Koppedrayer on Project Quiver

    Jaap Koppedrayer is a legendary bowyer with more than three decades of experience. A native of the Netherlands, he lives in Georgia in the United States and grows bamboo for bowmaking on his farm. There he also hosts international archery gatherings and is renowned for his expertise in the yumi bows of Japan. Episode Links: https://www.facebook.com/jaap.koppedrayer Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary In this episode, Jaap shares his extensive knowledge of traditional Japanese archery, bow making, and bamboo cultivation, highlighting the cultural and technical aspects of these ancient arts. Discover the secrets behind the craftsmanship, the history of bows, and the philosophy that guides this timeless practice. Show Notes: History and tradition of Japanese archery The process of making Yumi bows and arrows Cultivation and selection of bamboo for bows and arrows Techniques for flight shooting and long-distance archery The cultural significance of archery in Japan and China The mental and philosophical lessons from archery practice The impact of historical events on archery traditions The tools and tools used in bow making Chapters: 00:00 - How Stefan Tim connects them01:09 - Why Jaap moved to Georgia to grow bamboo for bows04:19 - Hosting Japanese and Chinese archery programs04:47 - Building a 120-meter Japanese archery corridor07:58 - Choosing bow making over greenhouse work08:27 - First trip to Japan and meeting Kanjuro Shibata10:58 - The difference between Madake and Yadake bamboo12:37 - Why bamboo must age and cure for years13:46 - Bamboo farming challenges in Georgia’s climate16:25 - Why Madake is ideal for Japanese bow backs17:35 - Making many bow styles before focusing on Kyoto archery18:13 - Early international horseback archery festivals19:10 - Chinese archery revival and making bows for China 22:21 - Why horn bows take 3 to 5 years to finish23:26 - Flight shooting and training for precision26:34 - The challenge of lighter Yumi and very heavy bows27:19 - Feathers, sinew, and old-school materials sourcing28:41 - Going full-time in bow making in 198731:26 - Early Mongolian-style and horse bow work32:13 - Learning from Shibata by watching, not being lectured34:36 - Learning Japanese lacquer, Uru-shi35:54 - Ongoing relationship with the Shibata dojo and Kudo36:23 - The release technique used for flight shooting38:21 - Teaching bamboo arrow making through workshops40:49 - What a Yumi bow is made of42:10 - Rope, wedges, glue, and setting the bow’s curve45:15 - Possible ancient roots and shared global techniques46:27 - Thoughts on the Silk Route and the spread of techniques47:36 - Reading Zen and the Art of Archery48:07 - Visiting dojos in Japan by bicycle with Yumi bows49:12 - A modern book comparison: The Archer by Paulo Coelho50:27 - Archery as a major part of Jaap’s life, not just bow making51:48 - Japan, Turkey, China, and Korea rediscovering tradition52:17 - The Fort Dodge festival and international exchange54:39 - Lessons from bow making: humility, patience, and listening57:27 - Workshop tools: planers, belt sanders, rasps, and knives59:31 - No formal farm name, just “the bamboo farm”60:03 - The kind of students who come to train60:33 - Turkish archery and flight shooting workshops61:31 - The rural Georgia community that supports the program62:19 - What archery teaches about not taking life too seriously63:26 - Improvising with what you have and sharing knowledge at shoots64:41 - A funny flight shooting story involving arrows that came back66:52 - Looking at the bows in Jaap’s workshop67:29 - Kay’s writing work and the kitchen table shop68:53 - A life built around craft, people, and purpose69:19 - Future idea: focused conversations on specific bow types70:09 - Lucas Novotny and the old Turkish bow story72:21 - How to reach Jaap by email or phoneNotable quotesAction items

    #91 Jaap Koppedrayer on Project Quiver
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Todd N. Howard
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Todd N. Howard
  • Show Website
    Salish Wolf