Hey all -
so I'm hoping to budget a bow-build in the near future and hope to get on a list soon... I would also like to be involved in locating some special woods for the build. Debating between some figured ziricote and/or desert ironwood for the riser, and would love a highly figured wood (medium to darker tone) for the limbs. Highly spalted mango has always amazed me but I'm not sure if a person can find this anymore? Appreciate any thoughts on best sources for bow woods, especially figured limb veneers.
Randy

If your set on splayed mango I'm sorry can't help. If not maybe Birdseye maple and if it's stained and sanded just right it might be a good alternative. Good luck.

For spalted mango I'd check with Big Jim's Bow Company or Rosewood Archery. Both have been reputable sources for many bowyers including myself

I  build alot of mango bows mostly curly mango not spalted and impregnate the mango for handles or use as is for veneers under the clear glass.  There is lots of spalted maple available it should only be used for veneers not strong enough for handles and the veneers should be very thin so the glue penetrates though . Spalted wood is actually decayed wood.

I've built a ton of bows with Spalted maple in the riser. Properly stabilized and reinforced of course.

I meant to say spalted mango not maple .

They make ukuleles out of that.

Zircote hasn't been the best riser wood for me, generally just looks black. I mean it's fine but not the best , helps with sapwood IMO. Just turns black under glass. Mango is cool. I have a block I need to get into.

Hawaii tropical hardwoods might be the only place to get it. I got some small pieces awhile back for knife scales.

Does anyone have a picture of Spalted Mango? I don't guess have ever seen spalted mango

Quote from: wscruggs on June 01, 2021, 10:02:32 AM
Does anyone have a picture of Spalted Mango? I don't guess have ever seen spalted mango

Found these on Google, very nice looking for sure!
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