Alternative bow woods list

[stuckinthemud]

We all know certain classic timbers for bows -yew, Osage, ash, most maples, hickory- but how about a list of less well known timbers that make an amazing bow , timbers you reckon everyone should try but no-one seems to.

My suggestions:

scotch broom - only really available in short lengths but easy to splice , easy to shape with heat, brilliant for sinewing and kicks like a mule

Mountain laurel - will NOT heat shape and needs strapping down to season but unbelievably fast

[Selfbowman]

I haven’t run out of Osage yet. But if I do I’ll consider others.

[Muskyman]

I’ve always wanted to try some mulberry. I’ve read it’s a good bow wood and related to Osage. I’m lucky to have some pretty good bow woods growing in my area. I let people know I’m always looking for Osage if they hear anything they call me. I have been keeping my eye out for some black locust too. I’ve heard that walnut is pretty good but never tried any.

[mmattockx]

Don't forget cherry.


Mark

[GlisGlis]

Apple, plum, mulberry.
they say elderberry is very good but I only made one that broke very early
Black locust too is very good
I recently tried alianthus (invasive species here) for kid bows and it's really snappy and usually straight, node free and very fast to dry without checks

[stuckinthemud]

Alianthus is a new one for my list

[Jim Davis]

Serviceberry

[bjrogg]

HHB. I have heard good things but never tried yet. Apple and plum. I have a wild apple tree that really needs trimming. I think I can see a bow growing there.
Have some birch I’m going to try.
Bjrogg

[WhistlingBadger]

Juniper and sinew is a winning combination, but not the easiest way to make a bow.  I've only finished one, and 10# kids' bow.  It is amazingly snappy for such a light weight.

I have some rocky mountain maple, roughed out and awaiting the end of hunting season.  It's closely related to vine maple and I hear good things about it.  Will probably back with rawhide to avoid explosions.  Stay tuned. 

[Ruddy Darter]

Hawthorn, blackthorn and hazel.
 R.D.

[Will B]

I’ve fire-hardened white oak and made some nice selfbows.