Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Del the cat on November 23, 2021, 03:28:34 am

Title: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: Del the cat on November 23, 2021, 03:28:34 am

I'm re-cladding ("siding" in the USA?) the porch of our house. The old cladding is WRC, nice tight grain, clean straight and well seasoned (60 yrs!). I'm thinking of using it for some experiments or light bows.
I've heard of ERC as bow wood, but has anyone used WRC and what sort of poundage is the limit ?
Del

Title: Re: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: PatM on November 23, 2021, 06:32:16 am

It is not  related to ERC. It's Thuja  Generally it is not a bow wood but people have made very light bows from it. Not long lasting and rather delicate.

Title: Re: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: Eric Krewson on November 23, 2021, 08:51:01 am

I had a house clad with it once, very porous light weight stuff that is rot resistant.

Title: Re: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: PaSteve on November 23, 2021, 09:13:00 am

Worked with it for 12 years in a woodshop making exterior wooden shutters. It varied very much. Some dense and darker and other boards lighter in color and weight. Never tried to make a bow from it but did try some arrows. It was hard to get high enough spines in 11/32" and it was very brittle compared to more common arrow woods. Overall, like mentioned you could probably get an "OK" bow at a lighter draw weight but longevity will most likely be an issue. It is a great wood for outdoor applications.

Title: Re: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: Del the cat on November 23, 2021, 09:26:36 am

Cheers guys... looks like I'll be making some planters rather than bows or arrow!
Del

Title: Re: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: Pat B on November 23, 2021, 10:24:17 am

Del, it will make pretty good, lightweight arrows.

Title: Re: Wester Red Cedar
Post by: Del the cat on November 23, 2021, 12:19:32 pm

Quote from: Pat B on November 23, 2021, 10:24:17 am

Del, it will make pretty good, lightweight arrows.

ok, I'll have a play :)
Del