#73 Lubo Sojak on Project Quiver

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Lubo Sojak is a passionate craftsman and bowyer who has spent over a decade perfecting his bow making skills. Based in Slovakia, Lubo started his journey in archery through a friend's influence, which sparked a lifelong passion for bow making. Every bow he makes is from a stave that he has personally harvested and seasoned.

“I’ve had many jobs, and none of them gave me the opportunity to use my fantasy and knowledge.”

— Lubo Sojak

Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Lubo Sojak.         

Episode Links:

https://www.instagram.com/lubosojak/

https://www.facebook.com/people/Luky-L-S/100063498604883/

Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Summary:

In this conversation, Todd interviews Lubo Sojak, a bowyer from Slovakia, who shares his journey into the world of archery and bow making. Lubo discusses his beginnings, the philosophy behind his craft, and the community of bow makers. He emphasizes the importance of tradition while also valuing innovation in bow making. The conversation also touches on the types of wood he prefers to use and the challenges of harvesting materials in Slovakia. In this conversation, Lubo and Todd delve into the intricacies of bow making, discussing various wood types, their properties, and personal experiences in crafting bows. They explore the significance of rot-resistant woods, the challenges and techniques involved in bow crafting, and the importance of learning from others in the bowyer community. The dialogue also touches on the environmental aspects of bow making, the journey of learning and perfecting the craft, and the diverse styles and methods employed by different bowyers.

Show Notes:

Lubo does not identify as an archer but as a bow maker.

His journey into archery began with a friend's bow.

Bow making is a hobby for Lubo, not a profession.

He finds peace and joy in the process of making bows.

Lubo enjoys sharing his knowledge with others in the bow making community.

He prefers using local woods like mulberry and black locust for bow making.

Lubo emphasizes the importance of learning from failures in his craft.

He believes tradition in bow making is built over time and through experience.

The bow making community is supportive and generous across borders.

Lubo harvests all his own wood, valuing the connection to his materials. Lubo discusses the challenges of identifying different wood types for bow making.

Black locust is noted for its hardness and suitability for fence posts.

Rot-resistant woods are commonly used for making durable bows.

Personal experiences with various woods enhance the bow crafting process.

The environment in Slovakia provides ample resources for bowyers.

The journey of learning from different bowyers is invaluable.

Different bowyers have unique techniques and styles in crafting bows.

Perfection in bow making is subjective and varies among bowyers.

The importance of accepting imperfections in crafted bows is highlighted.

Community and sharing knowledge among bowyers enrich the craft.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Lubo Sojak and Archery

03:03 The Journey into Bow Making

05:48 Hobby vs. Profession: The Bowyer's Life

08:59 The Philosophy of Bow Making

12:13 Community and Culture in Bow Making

15:05 Tradition vs. Innovation in Bow Making

18:14 Favorite Bow Types and Techniques

20:54 Wood Selection and Harvesting Techniques

30:46 Exploring Wood Types for Bow Making

33:39 The Role of Rot-Resistant Woods

36:20 Personal Experiences with Different Woods

41:25 The Environment and Resources for Bowyers

44:09 The Journey of Bow Making and Learning

51:12 Diverse Techniques and Styles in Bow Making

59:00 The Art of Perfection in Bow Crafting