Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Arrows => Topic started by: mcginnis6010 on August 09, 2014, 01:06:53 pm

Title: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: mcginnis6010 on August 09, 2014, 01:06:53 pm

I had heard that Native Americans used mullein for arrow shaft so I went to cut some the other day and currently have them drying. I would be interested in hearing if anyone has used it before and what their experience with it was.

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: Pat B on August 09, 2014, 01:53:08 pm

I haven't but I've heard of it being used for fire spindles.   Horseweed, goldenrod and dog fennel also work for arrows.

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: Danzn Bar on August 09, 2014, 02:56:29 pm

I agree with ya Pat,  the mullein around here is a larger diameter and could be used for fire spindles.   

Mc... do you have any photos of the mullein?
DBar

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: mcginnis6010 on August 09, 2014, 05:29:49 pm

I can take some pic in a lil bit. The base is rather thick probably 3/4 in. I was thinking I could sand it down to proper diameter.

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: Pat B on August 09, 2014, 07:13:51 pm

It is pithy or hollow inside. Can't reduce it enough to matter.

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: E. Jensen on August 09, 2014, 08:44:59 pm

Try it.  Ever try and break a mullein stalk?  It'll whip up and slap you in the face 2-3 times before you give up.

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: mcginnis6010 on August 10, 2014, 09:51:06 am

Lol yea and you can't cut it down with just a knife. I had to use my handsaw to cut em.

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: HickoryBill on August 10, 2014, 12:20:00 pm

anyone got any pics of horseweed?

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: Pat B on August 10, 2014, 12:38:19 pm

Google it, Bill. they have some good pics. When you recognize you will say, "oh that stuff. We have tons of it around here".  ;)

Title: Re: anyone ever use mullein for shafts before?
Post by: Outbackbob48 on August 10, 2014, 02:11:20 pm

i have been using Mullein and horseweed for handdrills, never tried either for arrows. Sorry :( Bob