I cut this hickory too late this summer. I usually just try and get what I think the back will be exposed then start my mass reduction with a hatchet after. The little bits on the edges are easier to clean up after. I always rawhide back these bows too just as an insurance policy.
Question for the more experienced....Do you find that the bark gets thinner the higher in the tree you go? I noticed while draw knifing through the bark it seemed thinner.
