Any benefit to heat treating osage?

[snag]

I know heat treating the belly of a hazelnut bow helps to strengthen it. Is this the same for osage? I have a osage bow I am tillering now. The limbs had some reflex put in them. I'm just wondering if too much heat would mess with that? Or if there is really any benefit to heat treating them at this point.

[John Scifres]

I think tempering helps osage.  I am sure that I have had success with it.  There are no miracles here and bad design, bad wood, or bad technique can't be fixed.  But, heat tempering osage has a additive effect to good design, good wood, and good technique.

It's never too late.

[snag]

John, do you just heat it up till it's hot to the touch? I don't want to bother the reflex in the limbs.

[John Scifres]

No, you have to toast it or get it hot enough to change the color.  You are basicaly changng the nature of the wood and sort of melting it and then clamping it into reflex.  If you are happy with what you have, leave it.  Osage does not require tempering at all.

[Pat B]

I agree 100% with John! I have used heat treating on osage bows for the last few years and it has either improved the performance of my bows or it has covered up my misfortunes. Either way it works for me! d;^)
BUT!!!...a well tillered osage bow need nothing to improve it!

[snag]

Thanks guys. Just trying to learn what each wood wants from me to be it's best. I appreciate the help.