Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: TimothyR on June 24, 2015, 10:27:28 pm

Title: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: TimothyR on June 24, 2015, 10:27:28 pm
I'm getting a mesquite stave and was wondering how to dry it. I have heard that it moves a lot when drying. And do I use the sap or remove it like Osage?  Thanks in advance
Title: Re: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: alwayslookin on June 24, 2015, 10:47:26 pm
Don't know about the drying never used it for bows. I know ed Scott like  s it for bows so it must be good. I use it to BBQ though hahaha
Title: Re: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: Josh B on June 24, 2015, 10:51:10 pm
Mesquite is also prone to checking as it dries, so be sure to seal it good.  I've never tried chasing a ring on mesquite.  Out of five attempts at a selfbow using the sapwood as the back, I only managed to get one to hold together.  It does do well with a sinew back though and the wood is beautiful.  Josh
Title: Re: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: TimothyR on June 24, 2015, 11:26:41 pm
Mesquite is also prone to checking as it dries, so be sure to seal it good.  I've never tried chasing a ring on mesquite.  Out of five attempts at a selfbow using the sapwood as the back, I only managed to get one to hold together.  It does do well with a sinew back though and the wood is beautiful.  Josh


It is some beautiful wood. I've built stuff out of it and it takes a beautiful shine. I've never had to dry it though. So should I take the sapwood of and sinew it or leave the sapwood and sinew?
Title: Re: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: Josh B on June 24, 2015, 11:41:39 pm
I left the sapwood and sinewed and it worked out fine.  I like the contrast of the sapwood on the edges of the belly with heartwood down the middle.  All of my staves were saplings no bigger than 3" diameter.  Josh
Title: Re: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: carpholeo on June 25, 2015, 12:46:25 am
Which type of mesquite is it ?
Title: Re: Mesquite stave questions
Post by: TimothyR on June 25, 2015, 09:38:35 am
Which type of mesquite is it ?

Not sure. What ever is most abundant in Texas.