RE: Ho wlong to become completely self-sufficient?
Jeff,
Check ebay for Bitx jigs. You can sometimes find a deal on them. I ended up with 3 of them with all the clamps and nock sets for around 100. Just look close. I ended up finding one auction with 2 bitz and 3 of brand (work great too) got that for 60 if I remember right. Then another bitz jig. I ended up pickeing up the other nock reciever so I can do left right or straight. Plus If I ever need to I can sell them and get my money back.Hard to tear up a bitz. If your going trad you'll want to be able to make any arrows you want.
But let me warn you about making stuff like arrows. Its addictive. I make everything: Bows, arrows (Cedar and Rivercane), obsidian heads, trade points, strings, quivers, knives....I'm sure I'm forgetting something.
Cosider yourself warned. Sounds like you may be headed down the path I did. But its Fun!