Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: ccase39 on October 28, 2015, 04:11:09 pm

Title: Tree ID number 2
Post by: ccase39 on October 28, 2015, 04:11:09 pm

Looks like Maple leaves but I cant be sure. What do you think? I'm in SE Louisiana.
Thanks!

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: Pat B on October 28, 2015, 04:19:09 pm

Sweet gum  You can make a bow from sweet gum if you can split it out!  >:D

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: Hrothgar on October 28, 2015, 04:20:25 pm

You beat me Pat, sweet gum x2.

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: ccase39 on October 28, 2015, 04:29:54 pm

Sweet so I can take bark off and split it down the middle now?

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: Hrothgar on October 28, 2015, 05:32:30 pm

I've never used sweet gum before but would treat it like any other white wood. Seal the ends, and debark and seal the back. You could split it into a stave now but if you split it in half and let it season a couple months before splitting it into a stave it is less likely to warp or twist.

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: ccase39 on October 28, 2015, 06:20:28 pm

It's only 3-4 inches thick so do you think I should just bark it and let it alone or could I split it in half with bandsaw?

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: Hrothgar on October 28, 2015, 07:38:09 pm

It should be good to half it.

Title: Re: Tree ID number 2
Post by: Pat B on October 28, 2015, 07:46:33 pm

What I've done with 2" osage poles is band saw them in half lengthwise then bind them back together with small wood spacers between them for good air movement This will keep them from warping also but they will dry flat. You can add reflex later after they start looking like bows.