Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Jakesnyder on June 04, 2021, 06:33:28 am

Title: Striped maple????
Post by: Jakesnyder on June 04, 2021, 06:33:28 am

Anyone have any experience with it? I've heard that the bark can is so tough it can actually become a backing for it? Thanks

Title: Re: Striped maple????
Post by: Eric Krewson on June 04, 2021, 09:41:26 am

Do you mean curly maple or is there species that is called striped maple?

I have worked with a lot of curly maple making flintlock stocks, definitely not selfbow material, hard at the curls and soft in-between them. It makes pretty lams for glass bows though.

Title: Re: Striped maple????
Post by: Digital Caveman on June 04, 2021, 09:47:35 am

You mean as in moosewood, with the green striped bark and giant leaves? 

We have a lot of it here.  It is one of those fast grow fast die types.  I've played with a stick of it once, the stuff is pretty soft, softer than red maple in most cases I think.  not worth your time if you have any harder woods.

Title: Re: Striped maple????
Post by: Pat B on June 04, 2021, 11:12:54 am

I think striped maple is too soft but I've never used it.
Eric, striped maple is Acer pensylvanicum, curly maple is usually figured hard maple where the grain doesn't grow straight.

Title: Re: Striped maple????
Post by: Eric Krewson on June 04, 2021, 04:20:25 pm

Red maple often has the most striking figure but is softer than sugar maple which is harder and more desirable for decorative carving.