Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => HowTo's and Build-a-longs => Topic started by: Bowman4269 on December 18, 2007, 04:07:42 pm

Title: Split or Cut?
Post by: Bowman4269 on December 18, 2007, 04:07:42 pm

I'm new to bowmaking so this is probably a stupid question but do most of you guys split your wood or cut it with a saw when making staves?

                                                                                                                                                                                 Bowman4269

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: Coo-wah-chobee on December 18, 2007, 04:49:27 pm

.........Split it out that way it will more than likely follow the grain. Dont saw it out, it will violate the grain................bob

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: George Tsoukalas on December 18, 2007, 09:33:09 pm

Do check that vertical grain and follow it when laying out the middle of the stave. Not a big deal with a straight whitewood stave but becomes important when dealing with a snaky stave. The vertical grain runs tip to tip. Look closely at the back of the stave. Jawge

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: cowboy on December 18, 2007, 09:37:22 pm

Have tried both - prefer splitting, as a split follows the grain. After you debark and locate the grain, saw away :).

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: Hillbilly on December 19, 2007, 09:08:10 am

Split. Then saw or chop to profile, but like Jawge said, you gotta follow the grain. If you try to make a straight bow out of a crooked stave, it's gonna blow up on you.

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: Auggie on December 19, 2007, 09:10:47 am

Oh you gotta split it, how else can you appreciate the strength and toughness of the tree? Plus swingin a  big hammer is good for ya.

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: Pappy on December 19, 2007, 11:07:33 am

I split most ,but do cut Hickory if it is good striaght grain. :) and want to get the most out of it.
    Pappy

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: DanaM on December 19, 2007, 11:15:08 am

In the interest of settling this debate if anyone wants to drop 2 logs of osage off at my house I will do one each way
and report the rusults back to ya all ;D

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: madcrow on December 19, 2007, 03:16:31 pm

If you only try osage, that would still leave the debate open, so in all fairness, I say two of everything.  If you need help splitting, call me and make a large pot of coffee.

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: cowboy on December 19, 2007, 08:46:58 pm

On the way Dana, one anyway - think you'll be able to get two outa this one (maybe ;)).

Title: Re: Split or Cut?
Post by: DanaM on December 20, 2007, 05:59:19 am

Camp coffe ok? Black and strong, none of that sissy Starbucks slop.
If the grain is not straight I say split, if the grain is nice and straight kerf with a chainsaw
and save a little work. On small diameter 3"-4" I will just cut them in half on the bandsaw.