I just slit out 15 hickory staves (fresh cut). I have not used much hickory over the years. Its been always dried wood given too me.. So how long should I air dry it before I start forming a selfbow??? Thank You ..Jeff

You can start forming your bow now Jeff. Rough shape the bow, get the limbs bending but leave wide. Leave the bow in the house (laying flat) for a month and then start finishing your bow out. Give one of those staves a try and see how things wotk out for you........Art

If they are real green after you rough them out lash them to a straight 2x4 it will help protect the ends from twisting. Also if you need to correct any alignment problems you can clamp them green and let them dry. I have introduced some reflex while they are green and they have not pulled out after they are dried.

Thanks ..Guys... Jeff

Jeff, I'm trying to build my first bow from hickory.I split a 6 inch tree into 4 staves last weekend, removed the bark and put them on a shelf to dry. I had the same question about the length of time for drying. Mine have already started to warp toward the bark. Is it too late to straighten them? George

I myself don't worry about the warp..I can straighten them when I build bow !

I agree with Art but I leave the handle full width and nock and inch wide until you string it. You can make adjustments without having to sprint to the heat gun. Jawge

If you have the time it's best to split the logs in half and leave the bark on (good idea to spray the bark with something to keep the worms out)let air dry in a shed for a couple months. Then split out the staves, they shouldn't warp now. remove the bark and cut out the bow shape. Then you can finish drying a few days in a car in the sun or heat box. The main thing is it must be dry, real dry, before tillering. This one way.

Thanks ..Guys.

I also thank you. George