Sassafras stave?

[beetlebailey1977]

Is it good to keep the sapwood or should it be removed?  Anybody  that has some experience with it let me know....please.

[Pat B]

I made a sassafras bow years ago but just peeled the bark and made the bow. Treat it like any whitewood. Over the years I've seen quite a few sassafras bows but only made the one.

[George Tsoukalas]

Keeping it is ok. Jawge

[beetlebailey1977]

Ok sounds good.....I have removed the bark and I am going to lay the bow out shortly.  I didn't realize how much the sapwood would darken up until I peeled some off with the drawknife while taking some bark.  I quess I am going to make a flatbow but not sure yet. 

[nyarrow]

Sassafras is very similar to mulberry if I remember right. It's listed in the books as a great bow wood. I hope she turns out well for you.

[johnston]

James what was the starting diameter of what you cut? I have a couple sassafras staves but had to settle for 1 1/2" or 2" saplings. One was at the back and took a twist and the other has a split. Peeled and sealed, don't know what I did wrong.

Lane

[getstonedprimitivebowhunt]

...very light wood in color and mast... I love the smell...and taste !

[beetlebailey1977]

Johnston it was from a larger tree but I am not sure of what size.  I got the stave from tetaxidermy......it had to be from at least a 12"+ tree.  I will post a pic of it when I get the chance.  The sapwood is very white and the heartwood reminds me kinda of osage just not quite as dark, but still golden.