Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: turmoiler on October 22, 2010, 04:39:27 pm

Title: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: turmoiler on October 22, 2010, 04:39:27 pm: Hello,
I have some oak and jatoba boards, but I got nothing to back them. Where I live is impossible to find hickory so I'm looking for a substitute for backing the boards. In my local lumber yard I found some hard maple. Can I use this wood for backings? If so, is better flat or edge sawn? Any other tip?

thanks in advance
Title: Re: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: El Destructo on October 22, 2010, 04:44:17 pm: The Answer is...........YES.....maple will work for Backing Red Oak...never tried it on Jatoba before...but it will be fine...just make sure that it's cut either Quartersawn or better...Edge Grain...and you will be fine...oh and ...No Run-Off Grain either....
Title: Re: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: turmoiler on October 22, 2010, 04:57:25 pm: Thanks for answering,

in fact what I have is white oak, is there any problem with that? what oak is better white or red?
Title: Re: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: HoBow on October 22, 2010, 05:03:15 pm: White oak will not need a backing if you do not violate it while debarking- you should be set without it ;)
Title: Re: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: El Destructo on October 22, 2010, 05:12:00 pm: Jeff is correct...as long as this is a Stave and not a Board...if it's a Board...and it's Quartersawn or Bias/Edge grain...then it still would need no backing...but if is any other Grain Configuration...Back it...JMO
Title: Re: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: turmoiler on October 22, 2010, 05:19:31 pm: Well, the fact is that is very difficult to see the grain (at least for me). I will try to post pics.
Title: Re: Can Maple be used for backing bows?
Post by: El Destructo on October 22, 2010, 05:43:21 pm: If in doubt...Back It