Selfbow woods?

[Matt Fowler]

I'm looking on **** for a stave for my 2nd selfbow. Does elm require chasing a ring? How does oak or elm compare to working with hickory? Thanks in advance.

[Pat B]

I've only used elm a few times but found it to be a superior bow wood. I built a 60" elm static recurve for the TG bow trade a few years ago and was very pleased with the results.
If the stave was summer cut the bark should peel off to reveal the back of the bow. If winter cut you will have trouble removing the bark cleanly but it can be done. If you do violate a back ring a rawhide backing will remedy the violations.

[LittleBen]

Matt, isn't PA basically one giant wooded hill? You might be able to find a nice hickory to cut down and then you'd really be in business.

[George Tsoukalas]

No ring chasing needed on any whitewood. Jawge

[KellyG]

Pat are all elms equal I know it grows out here more then hedge but and could get a ton of it.

[Pat B]

Kelly, I think most of the native stuff is similar but there are other exotic or hybrids that might not be. I've used winged elm and red elm, both good bow woods.