Wubei Zhi (Vol. 34)

On Layering and Offsetting the Bamboo Nodes

For a single stave assembly, the first, second, and third layers should all be of equal length. Select a section so that a bamboo node sits exactly in the middle; this center node is to be fitted into the stave-socket the hole in the crossbow stock through which the bow is mounted.

Even with the center node fixed, there will still be nodes toward the two ends of the slat. The first layer serves as the foundation. When preparing the second layer, you must also select a piece with a node in the center, but the nodes at its two ends must not align or overlap with the nodes of the first layer. The third layer is prepared similarly: its middle is centered, but its end nodes must not be allowed to align with those of the first or second layers.

Follow this same principle for the fourth and fifth layers. It is vital that the nodes at the ends of every layer are spaced apart from one another; the assembly is only considered successful if they do not overlap. If the nodes are allowed to align directly on top of one another, the stave becomes brittle and will break easily at that point.

For the first layer, use bamboo from the middle of the stalk where it is slightly thinner. For the second and third layers, select and adjust the pieces accordingly. Use the thickest bamboo from the root end the base of the bamboo culm, which is the densest and strongest part for the sixth layer, which is known as the Striking Layer original: Dadan (打擔); the outer-most layer of a laminated bow that provides the primary structural tension and power.

If you find that the bamboo nodes overlap during assembly, you must cut that section away and select a new piece; do not be frugal with your bamboo. Cut the pieces to their proper lengths and match them carefully to form a complete set. Taking the green outer skin original: Zhuqing (竹青); the silica-rich outer layer of the bamboo, which possesses the highest tensile strength from the root end...