Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Flashman on January 02, 2011, 06:37:15 pm

Title: Standing Dead Yew
Post by: Flashman on January 02, 2011, 06:37:15 pm

I found a standing dead yew tree.  It has probably been dead for many years or decades.  Is this still usable to make a bow--all other things equal?

Thanks.

Title: Re: Standing Dead Yew
Post by: bcbull on January 02, 2011, 06:50:11 pm

yes! flash  u should ck it  espically if it s a big tree  some of the bery best billets  i ever have had came from a tree that d been dead over 50 years  the heartwood is usally still good  i say check it and see  u got nuthing to loose  brock

Title: Re: Standing Dead Yew
Post by: El Destructo on January 02, 2011, 07:01:42 pm

I would definitely see what I could salvage...Yew is not like White Woods...it will no get Fungus and Rot like most White Woods...will last longer like Cedars...Junipers... Larch and Hemlock

Title: Re: Standing Dead Yew
Post by: Del the cat on January 03, 2011, 05:49:56 am

You might find the white sapwood has rotted, but you will most likely have good heartwood in there, which is fine with maybe a hickory, rawhide or sinew backing.
Bows have been made with unbacked Yew heartwood, but I'd back it for safety.
Del