The Bow Bolt measures 2 ½" in length, has a shank diameter of .740" and separates in the middle with ¼ turn counter clockwise.
There is a 7/8" X .060" flange at the point of separation on each half of the joint. One half of the joint is male and the other half is female. See Photo # 1
Each half of the joint is threaded with 1/4 of the threads on each pieces removed in two spots opposite each other. See photo #2 and #3
This allows the male part of the bolt to be inserted all the way to the flange of the female part so both flanges are touching. At this point, the threads (male and female) are aligned and a ¼ turn clockwise tightens the flanges against each other. This, essentially, creates a ¾" X 2 ½" solid steel or aluminum joint in the handle of the bow. (the Bow Bolt will be offered in both materials)
The joint is considerably stronger than the material it replaces as is the epoxy used to make the bond (Smooth-on MT-13 recommended but regular smooth on works well too) so the bow handle is actually stronger than as a one piece.
PROGRESSIONTo date, the Bow Bolt has gone through three prototype stages:
1. Stainless without positive stops and without groves.
2. Stainless with positive stop and with groves.
3. Hard Anodized 7071 aircraft grade aluminum with positive stop and groves.
Prototype bows in use to date with the Bow Bolt installed:
1. 62", 47# @ 28" - Actionwood Riser - 4000+ shots
2. 62", 51# @ 28" - Solid Cocobola riser - 3000+ shots
3. 62", 65# @ 28" - Dymondwood riser - 500+ shots
4. 62", 49# @ 28" - Solid Cocobola riser
5. 62", 52# @ 27" - Retro fitted laminated riser
6. 60", 27# @ 27" - Bamboo Backed Osage board bow
7. 62", 56# @ 28" - Solid black Micarta riser (my Elk bow for this season)
At this writing, all bows are performing extremely well. Photos # 4, #5, and #6 show the first two bows.
