Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: whitewoodshunter on September 27, 2008, 07:56:55 pm

Title: Ash stave?
Post by: whitewoodshunter on September 27, 2008, 07:56:55 pm
I just cut a ash sapling (or at least I think it's ash) to use as a bow stave.The wood is obviously still green. my question is is it ok to remove the bark and rough the bow out and rub down with fat and let season.I already painted the ends to seal them.   While writing this I am chowing down on fresh venison backstrap! YUM YUM!!!
Title: Re: Ash stave?
Post by: JackCrafty on September 27, 2008, 08:05:29 pm
Ash saplings make good bows if they are not too short...unless you back them with something.  You can peel and rub it down with fat (or wax) but it won't make too much difference in the drying time compared to a clean stave.  Ash dries pretty fast (may 2-3 months) in a dry environment.  Twice that long if humid.

Your description of how to prepare and season a stave sounds like a description of the way Native Americans did it.  There's nothing wrong with that approach but it's not the only way. ;D  I'm sure others will chime in.