A friend and I were discussing backings for Ipe and Osage bows, and he asked if anyone ever uses one to back the other. I can't recall ever hearing about an Osage backed Ipe or an Ipe backed Osage, so I figured I'd ask you guys.

Has it been done? If not, what are the properties of the woods that make it a bad plan?

Well that's a start. Does it make an ok bow or are there issues?

Maybe I'll try one and if it works ill make it my swap bow....

Sounds like you got a challange. I don't think it will hold up either way.

Now, a tri-lam IPE core, Osage belly & backed with Hickory would be a good start to a nice looking and performing bow.

You know more about this stuff than I do, Osagetree. Can I ask why you think that?

Just make it monkeyboy, if your gonna be dumb, ya gotta be tuff.

Something I've learned the hard way more times than I'd like to admit, Roy. That's why I'm gathering info first!

If I knew much it wouldn't have taken 3 tries!

             

Dang, Joe!!! That is SWEET!!!

I've thought about that too but can't mess with IPE. I wanna breathe a little while longer.

I can't get anywhere near IPE dust, it tore me up bad 3 years ago. Still have problems from it.
Howdy, Kenny.

Gorgeous bow, Joe! Is that hickory backing with your camo stain?
I love the 5 curve design.
Stan

Hey Roy.

The osage backed ipe might work and I stress might.  That would be the only one that I would try.  I would not use ipe as a backing, but thats just my opinion.

And that bow is feaking awsome.

Try it.  Post pics.