steaming hickory bow

[vampire]

I have watched Gary Davis's DVD and have a question. He suggest coating osage bows with a sealer before steaming. Does this apply to hickory as well?

[PEARL DRUMS]

I have never steamed hickory. The wood is sealed to try and prevent excess moisture from getting in. Considering hickory is less dense than osage I would say its a good idea to seal it as well. Just a guess.

[John Scifres]

Also, steaming will actually dry wet wood.  Sealing it helps prevent uneven drying and checking..

[vampire]

thanks for the help.
george