Hickory backed black locust or hickory?

[Zradix]

What would you do?
Making a mild r/d around 48#@28" 64"L.

A hickory backed hickory or hickory backed Black locust?

If you could throw in a "why" it would be appreciated.

Thanks!
   

[PEARL DRUMS]

Locust all day. Only one reason that matters, hickory is a sponge and you live in Humidville, Mi. Locust is better in compression and will hold your glued in shape much better. Its also much lighter and will make a faster bow in the same draw weight. I like hickory for one thing, backings.

[Zradix]

Thanks Pearl.

I've heard hickory is bad in humid climates...but wasn't sure if Michigan qualified..lol

Just looking at pine hollow's "cheap" kits.

He also has cedar,walnut, elm and sassafras belly wood for the same $$$.

but I "think"..the locust and hickory are the best of the choices for what I want to do...and maybe locust is #1 of the choices.

I figure I'll just keep it a little wider (1.5"-1.75") and keep a flat belly.

Thank you.
 

[PEARL DRUMS]

Walnut, red cedar and sassafras aren't very good in compression and would struggle with an RD design without perfect planning and tillering. Locust and hickory is far and away your best bet.

[Zradix]

sweet.
Good to have someone with experience agree...musta learnt me sumthin round here.

Thanks!
 

[Pat B]

I agree with Pearlie. You can trap it and temper the belly to help prevent frets also. If you temper the belly, do it before glue up.

[Zradix]

good ideas Pat.
thanks