Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: sleek on August 08, 2020, 10:45:38 pm

Title: Red oak as a core
Post by: sleek on August 08, 2020, 10:45:38 pm

Would red oak board do any good as a core wood between a bamboo back and osage slat for the belly?

Title: Re: Red oak as a core
Post by: Bob Barnes on August 09, 2020, 06:24:53 am

it's light weight and would be in a neutral plane (I think)...but I might be tempted to use edge grain since I have seen a few pieces come apart between rings...I like to use maple or yew.

Title: Re: Red oak as a core
Post by: Bubbabowyer on August 09, 2020, 06:44:31 am

I would've though oak species to be too heavy. I have been entertaining the idea of use hemp stalk though

Title: Re: Red oak as a core
Post by: PatM on August 09, 2020, 07:27:56 am

Quote from: Bubbabowyer on August 09, 2020, 06:44:31 am

I would've though oak species to be too heavy. I have been entertaining the idea of use hemp stalk though

 Red Oak falls in the same range as Maple.

Title: Re: Red oak as a core
Post by: Pat B on August 09, 2020, 10:47:40 am

I'd say it might depend on whether it is a store bought board from a big box store(origin?) or a specialty lumber co. or what you cut and seasoned yourself. I've cut red oak staves fresh and there is no comparison to those and what I could buy from Lowe's. 
As a core for a multi lam bow it would probably be OK but I think I'd try to find something else.