I've been reading this site, mainly this section, for the last couple weeks. I can't stand it anymore, and have given in to the urge to build a bow. So, last evening, I went behind my in-law's house to see what I might find. The best that I could scrounge from what was already on the ground was a small oak log, about 7-8 feet long, around 5 inches thick. It's been on the ground for probably 2 years. The goal is to build a youth longbow for my 10 year old son. Is it advisable that I seek a better piece of lumber for this project, or can I make this work? I'll see about getting a couple pictures of it tomorrow, if need be.
White woods start decaying as soon as they hit the ground so you might want to think about cutting fresh wood and seasoning it or a board bow which is how many of us started
Been on the ground too long and won't be good for bow building. If it had been osage it would have still been fine because osage is very rot resistant.
Another thing, I always back youth bows with bamboo. The thought of a youngster having a bow blow up and being injured is always on my mind.
Bamboo will keep a bow from failing, at least in the kaboom, dramatic fashion.
Hickory would be my choice for an unbacked youth bow. It is a very tough wood and won't blow up like oaks will when they fail.
Thanks for the insight guys. I'll just use the wood for firewood, and go to the local woodworkers supply store and buy a bit of Hickory.
LOTS of Osage in Missouri!!..
:D
Shawn...