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Splitting Hickory Staves

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WackEM:
I just made my first hickory self bow last year and I thought it turned out pretty good. I was wanting to make some more when I get time since I have a better understanding of how to but my family is selling the land that I get my hickory logs from so I went yesterday and cut a few logs to split into staves for future use. My question is after I split the logs into staves can I take the bark off and seal them with something to cure out? I didn’t know since under the bark is essentially the back of the bow.it’s just so much easier to take the bark off while it’s green. Any advice is much appreciated.

Will B:
I would recommend carefully removing the bark and cambium layer (using a combination of draw knife and card scraper) and sealing the backs and ends with shellac. This will keep the back and ends from checking while drying and reduce the potential for bug damage. Good luck with your future builds!

WackEM:
Thank you. Would I need to take the shellac off when I started to make the bow? If so how do you recommend doing that? Thanks again.

Pat B:
Shellac is usually carried by alcohol so it can be removed with a rag damp with denatured alcohol. The nice think about shellac is that most finishes are compatible with shellac. If you want to dye or stain your hickory you will have to remove the shellac completely before dying or staining.
 If your area is well enough into the growing season you should be able to just peel the bark off without having to use a scraper or draw knife.

WackEM:
Okay thank you. That’s what I’ll do. I know it would be a lot easier taking it off now than later plus keep the bugs out. The first bow I did was from a 3 1/2” to 4” sapling so I’ve never split any staves. Do you recommend chalking and cutting a line with a skill saw before splitting? Thanks again.

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