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How to choose a good violin bow

Whether it is the Pinanbogo wood or the Sumu produced in other parts of Brazil, when using the right wood and cutting in the opposite direction during processing, the suitability of a bow mainly depends on the following factors:
1) Weight. The weight varies from person to person, and many bows are made to weigh 61 grams. However, when purchasing, it is important to choose a bow that is suitable for your own weight. Of course, bows of different weights can also be prepared and used as needed.

2) The shape and elasticity of the bow rod. In general, the curvature of the bow should be exactly in contact with the lowest point of the bow's curvature when the bow hair is just tightened. When the bow hair continues to tighten, the bow rod near the bow head should be aligned with the overall curvature of the bow rod, and there should be no upward protrusion. Regarding elasticity, this issue is quite subtle. You can bend the bow in several directions and pick out the one you are satisfied with. When conditions permit, it is best to understand the craftsmanship of the archer. A bow rod needs to be baked multiple times during processing, and this baking requires the bow rod to be baked thoroughly, otherwise it will lose its elasticity after a period of use. When baking, the first baking during the opening and initial cutting process requires the most thorough baking, which must be done thoroughly until the outside of the billet is burnt or even ignited. In this way, after use, the bow will not lose its elasticity. The elasticity of a bow is not necessarily better the higher it is. It is required to meet the requirements for jumping the bow, while also being careful not to jump at the middle bow when pulling the long bow. A bow that easily trembles and jumps on its own when pulling a long bow is unwelcome
3) The center of gravity. This is a problem where everyone has different opinions, let me give you a rough idea. According to relevant literature and industry insiders, it is generally said that it is located 9 inches behind the bow root wood. Another theory is that the measurement starts from the bow screw, at a distance of 9 and a half inches. My experience is that I can't do it very well, so I need to go a little further. However, qin players themselves need to have an understanding of what kind of center of gravity bow they are accustomed to using, so that they can easily find the correct bow when equipping it.  

4) Bow root wood. Also known as ponytail storage, the most common is made of ebony. Insert silver (silver copper alloy) inlay and abalone shell pieces. Usually add "Paris decorative circles" on both sides. The center is a small circular bead, with an additional circle on the outside. Luxury bows can also be made with ivory or tortoiseshell as the bow base. However, this is only about luxury and value preservation, and has little to do with the performance of the bow.

5) Wrap the handle. Usually silver wire and leather. If the bow root is made of ivory or tortoiseshell, then it needs to use whalebone. Nowadays, whalebone is rare, so other materials can also be used to imitate whalebone. The cross-section of the bow rod above the handle can be circular or octagonal. Both types of cross-sections are universal. Bow hair is a "vulnerable item", and it is a professional bow that needs to be replaced with a ponytail every six months. For hobbies, let's be casual. Of course, the bow hair should be combed straight and evenly, with consistent tension and sufficient quantity.
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