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Alternative bow woods list

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stuckinthemud:
We all know certain classic timbers for bows -yew, Osage, ash, most maples, hickory- but how about a list of less well known timbers that make an amazing bow , timbers you reckon everyone should try but no-one seems to.

My suggestions:

scotch broom - only really available in short lengths but easy to splice , easy to shape with heat, brilliant for sinewing and kicks like a mule

Mountain laurel - will NOT heat shape and needs strapping down to season but unbelievably fast

Selfbowman:
I haven’t run out of Osage yet. But if I do I’ll consider others.

Muskyman:
I’ve always wanted to try some mulberry. I’ve read it’s a good bow wood and related to Osage. I’m lucky to have some pretty good bow woods growing in my area. I let people know I’m always looking for Osage if they hear anything they call me. I have been keeping my eye out for some black locust too. I’ve heard that walnut is pretty good but never tried any.

mmattockx:
Don't forget cherry.


Mark

GlisGlis:
Apple, plum, mulberry.
they say elderberry is very good but I only made one that broke very early
Black locust too is very good
I recently tried alianthus (invasive species here) for kid bows and it's really snappy and usually straight, node free and very fast to dry without checks

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