Salish Wolf

Todd Howard
  • 4.7 (11)
  • Crafts
  • Updated Weekly

Season 2: The best traditional bowyers in the world. This season is based on Project Quiver, and incredible father-daughter journey around the globe to capture the art and essence of the world's finest bow carvers. Season 1: Incredible stories of extraordinary endeavors that capture the magic of the human spirit. The inspiration for this season is a wolf named Takaya who gained global fame for living alone for nearly a decade on a tiny archipelago in the Salish Sea, showing us even the most unlikely is possible.

  1. 2d ago

    #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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Jul 15

    #90 Jaap Bolt on Project Quiver

    Jaap Bolt is a bowyer and archer based out of Amsterdam. Since he was a teenager he has been making and selling high quality bows that have earned him and international reputation. As an archer, he has competed extensively and credits mindfulness and meditation for helping him to regulate his mindset and emotions, and contributing to him becoming a national champion in the Netherlands. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jaap Bolt.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/boltbows/ https://www.facebook.com/jaap.bolt.1 Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: In this episode, Jaap Bolt shares his journey from childhood fascination with medieval weapons to becoming a passionate bowyer and competitive archer. He discusses his technical evolution, mindset shifts, and the joy of returning to primitive bow carving. In this episode, Jaap Bolt shares his journey from blacksmithing to bow carving, exploring the therapeutic aspects of woodworking, and his plans to teach bow making through a digital course. Discover insights into craftsmanship, patience, and the passion that fuels a lifelong pursuit of art and archery. Show Notes: Jaap Bolt's early interest in medieval weapons The story of making his first longbow in his teens His technical evolution from flatbows to recurves and fiberglass bows The importance of mindset and mental training in archery How meditation and self-awareness improved his performance The challenges of bow making and selling at a young age The significance of patience and experimentation in craftsmanship His plans to return to primitive bow carving and competitions Jaap Bolt's transition from blacksmithing to bow carving The therapeutic benefits of woodworking and bow carving Plans for a digital bowyer's course and teaching methods The importance of patience and craftsmanship in bow making Use of traditional and modern tools in woodworking and bow carving Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the guest’s background and connection with Amsterdam 00:23 - Personal experiences visiting Amsterdam, favorite spots, and local insights 02:28 - The origin story of archery and bow carving from childhood interests 05:03 - Early influences, Viking centers, and first handmade bows 09:00 - Transition from traditional to modern bows and shooting techniques 12:21 - The role of competitions in archery and evolving goals 13:37 - Technological and mindset shifts for improving archery performance 16:50 - The impact of meditation and inner work on personal growth 20:43 - Overcoming insecurities and embracing self-validation in craft 24:00 - The ongoing journey of personal development through bow making 28:50 - The progression from beginner to professional bowyer and selling bows as a youth 33:58 - Seasoning and drying wood for bow craftsmanship 36:24 - Experimenting with recurves, laminations, and extreme bow designs 38:22 - The challenges of maintaining and developing complex bows 41:55 - The shared journey of passion, external validation, and inner transformation 45:05 - The importance of experimentation and shifting toward traditional craftsmanship 50:42 - Returning to primitive bow carving and the nostalgic connection to the craft 55:09 - Lessons from bow carving that aid personal growth and patience 58:55 - The therapeutic nature of bow making and its mental health benefits 63:11 - The digital future: plans for an online course in bow carving 66:42 - The role of woodworking and teaching at a local school 73:36 - The influence of family, mentors, and community in shaping craft and passion 85:00 - Inlay work, arrow passes, and materials such as horn and bone in bow building 88:35 - The origin of the bowyer’s brand “Bolt Bows” and online presence 94:16 - The intersection of archery, storytelling, and holistic healing practices 96:40 - Reflections on a passionate life dedicated to craft, family, and sharing stories

    #90 Jaap Bolt on Project Quiver

  7. Jul 11

    #89 Néthanel Hersent on Project Quiver

    Néthanel Hersent a bowyer based in Dordogne, France, where he not only carves bows, but also makes knives and axes, forging the metal and using byproducts of bow carving for his handles. He carves bows under the brand of Raven Selfbows. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Néthanel Hersent.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/raven.selfbows/ https://www.instagram.com/the_forge_of_raven_selfbows/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: In this episode, Nétha Hersent shares her journey into bow making, her techniques, challenges, and the inspiration behind her craft. Discover how she combines traditional skills with modern tools to create beautiful, functional bows and knives. Show Notes: Nétha Hersent's background and introduction to archery The process of making bows from black locust and other woods Challenges in bow design and profile adaptation Use of traditional and modern tools in woodworking The influence of YouTube tutorials and community The significance of the raven as a totem and brand symbol Nétha's workshop setup and tools Her approach to knife and axe making The impact of bow making on her personal life and resilience The future of her craft and community collaboration Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:12 The Journey into Archery 04:43 Crafting the First Bow 11:10 Wood Selection and Techniques 15:05 Challenges in Bow Making 21:51 Business of Bow Making 27:16 The Raven Self Bow Brand 30:08 Crafting Knives and Tools 32:46 The Art of Bow Making 39:41 Design and Detail in Bow Handles 43:39 Bow Hunting in France 49:15 Bow Making as Therapy 52:29 Community and Collaboration in Bow Making 54:15 Testing and Improving Bows 57:25 Connecting with Customers and Future Plans

    #89 Néthanel Hersent on Project Quiver

  8. Jul 4

    #88 Martin Birk on Project Quiver

    Martin Birk is a bowyer based in Bornholm, Denmark, an island in the Baltic Sea, where he also teaches archery. He carves bows under the brand of Birk Bows and is known on social media as the Scandinavian Archer. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Martin Birk.          Episode Links: https://www.facebook.com/Scandinavianarcher https://www.instagram.com/scandinavian_archer_/ https://www.youtube.com/@scandinavianarcher Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions Summary: In this episode, Martin shares his journey into traditional bow making, the local Danish environment for bow woods, and his unique approach to archery and craftsmanship. Discover insights into sustainable harvesting, different bow styles, and the cultural landscape of primitive archery in Denmark. Show Notes: Martin's background and environment in Denmark Sustainable harvesting of bow woods in Denmark Different types of bows: self bows, laminates, and modern styles The cultural landscape of archery in Denmark Techniques and tools for bow making The role of patience and craftsmanship in bow making Archery as a meditative and recreational activity The influence of history and lineage in bow making Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:58 The Influence of Geography on Bow Making 05:58 The Journey into Bow Making 08:54 Materials and Techniques in Bow Making 11:56 Types of Wood and Their Characteristics 15:07 Crafting Techniques and Bow Styles 18:00 Personal Connection to Bow Making History 22:06 Crafting Passion: A Family Tradition 23:51 Archery as Meditation: Finding Peace in Practice 26:40 The Art of Bow Making: Techniques and Materials 27:17 Selling Bows: The Market and Pricing Strategies 28:44 Leather and Horn: Crafting Details in Bow Making 29:48 Exploring Wood Types: From Sapwood to Heartwood 34:14 Hunting Regulations in Denmark: A Costly Pursuit 37:12 Teaching Archery: Embracing Individual Styles 40:32 Instinctive vs. Aiming: Understanding Shooting Techniques 47:57 Exploring Archery Styles and Techniques 51:56 The Journey of Boxing and Competition 54:20 Family Life and Hobbies 56:41 The Workshop Experience 01:02:03 Lessons from Bow Making 01:09:04 Learning Resources and Mentorship 01:11:29 Branding and Online Presence

    #88 Martin Birk on Project Quiver
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Season 2: The best traditional bowyers in the world. This season is based on Project Quiver, and incredible father-daughter journey around the globe to capture the art and essence of the world's finest bow carvers. Season 1: Incredible stories of extraordinary endeavors that capture the magic of the human spirit. The inspiration for this season is a wolf named Takaya who gained global fame for living alone for nearly a decade on a tiny archipelago in the Salish Sea, showing us even the most unlikely is possible.

Information

  • Creator
    Todd Howard
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    95
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Todd Howard
  • Show Website
    Salish Wolf