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Beetle lines in elm, still useable?

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Jake_C:
I did some searching and didn't find this discussed on the forum, my apologies if I missed it. I've got a nice American elm log that unfortunately got knocked down by a dead ash a couple years back. Cut at 111” and 12” diameter and straight. The log was cut wet in December 2022 and while removing the bark I found lots of beetle trials underneath. Went ahead and let it dry under a dry overhang where it's sat un-split ever since. I've made an Osage self bow before, and although I love Osage there’s limited supply on the property. I know that with elm there’s no need to chase a ring, and that the back of the bow can be the outermost layer of wood just under the bark. Unfortunately there isn’t a long enough section unmolested by beetles to make a bow from. So what now? If I sanded past the beetle lines would that be an acceptable back for a self bow? I could always sinew back it but I’d prefer not to. Never worked with elm before. Worst case scenario i can get plenty of axe handles or canoe paddles out of it. Thanks in advance!

Hamish:
I would try working down to a growth ring below the damage. If the tracks disappear, you're good to go.

ajooter:
Do you have any pictures?  I've had some hop hornbeam with bug trails and it doesn't seem to affect the integrity of the back.  I guess it would depend on how severe they are.  I've never chased a ring on elm.  I would never attemp it on hop hornbeam....way too thin ringed.  If it's like ash or hickory I would say go for it.

Jake_C:
Tried to upload pictures with the post but it said the files were too big, let me try again here.

bassman211:
You would have to get rid of the bug lines, and chase a good ring to get a self bow from that log. If the rings are to thin to chase, and you still insist on using the log for bows sinew backing may work for you. Elm is excellent bow wood.

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