The stave I'm working has two good rings close to the back then they go real skinny as in 1/16th. There are some checks in the back that may go into the second good ring.
How much is too much to leave unbacked. Will backing with rawhide save a moderately back checked stave?
If the checking runs with the grain and not off of the edge there should be no problem. I usually add super glue to then.
Sounds like your wood is not quite dry enough. Sealing the back will prevent any more checking. I keep a spray can of Bullseye shellac handy and seal all wood bow backs while I am working on them, seasoned or not. You can remove it easily before finishing with an alcohol wipe down or put your finish right over the shellac. If you want to stain the back you will have to remove the shellac.
They are with the grain and do not run off the edge. This stave is at least a couple years old and had the bark off. I'm surprised they aren't worse.
You shouldn't have a problems with them but I would(do) add super glue in checks like this.
They were only one ring deep. I have the stave down to one ring now. I'M TIRED! This is tough but rewarding work.
I have three knots. One in the middle and two in the outer third of one limb.
Show us pics of your work. Is sounding good though. I am just about done with an osage stave that had/has checks and cracks all over it. I'm surprised I've gotten any sort of bow out of it.