Sourwood: Shoots or spilt

[Daniel Ladd]

I hear that sourwood makes good arrows and have some growing near me. My question is should I use shoots or spilt a log? Most of the things I've read talked about shoots, I haven't seen anything about splitting a log and shaping them. The trees here a fairly good size and not very many shoots around.

[Pat B]

Definitely shoots. Sourwood is my favorite shoot shaft. Be sure to only cut shoots with small branches and not just leaves. Those second year shoots make great arrows. 1/2" to 3/8" at the base is what you are looking for. If needed you can plane them down smaller.

[Daniel Ladd]

Thanks.