Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: stuckinthemud on September 01, 2024, 06:12:50 pm
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We all know certain classic timbers for bows -yew, Osage, ash, most maples, hickory- but how about a list of less well known timbers that make an amazing bow , timbers you reckon everyone should try but no-one seems to.
My suggestions:
scotch broom - only really available in short lengths but easy to splice , easy to shape with heat, brilliant for sinewing and kicks like a mule
Mountain laurel - will NOT heat shape and needs strapping down to season but unbelievably fast
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I haven’t run out of Osage yet. But if I do I’ll consider others.
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I’ve always wanted to try some mulberry. I’ve read it’s a good bow wood and related to Osage. I’m lucky to have some pretty good bow woods growing in my area. I let people know I’m always looking for Osage if they hear anything they call me. I have been keeping my eye out for some black locust too. I’ve heard that walnut is pretty good but never tried any.
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Don't forget cherry.
Mark
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Apple, plum, mulberry.
they say elderberry is very good but I only made one that broke very early
Black locust too is very good
I recently tried alianthus (invasive species here) for kid bows and it's really snappy and usually straight, node free and very fast to dry without checks
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Alianthus is a new one for my list
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Serviceberry
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HHB. I have heard good things but never tried yet. Apple and plum. I have a wild apple tree that really needs trimming. I think I can see a bow growing there.
Have some birch I’m going to try.
Bjrogg
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Juniper and sinew is a winning combination, but not the easiest way to make a bow. I've only finished one, and 10# kids' bow. It is amazingly snappy for such a light weight.
I have some rocky mountain maple, roughed out and awaiting the end of hunting season. It's closely related to vine maple and I hear good things about it. Will probably back with rawhide to avoid explosions. Stay tuned.
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Hawthorn, blackthorn and hazel.
R.D.
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I’ve fire-hardened white oak and made some nice selfbows.