Cedar Bow?

[fenciii]

Hi all..I am hoping you can all help me with this question. Being the experts I'm sure you can! Please keep in mind I am brand new and have only one bow under my belt.

I have stumbled across some cedar and had heard that you can make a bow out of it. Here are my questions;
1. Does it matter what kind?
2. Can I do it?
3. would it make a good bow?
4. any suggestions on best methods for cedar if yes?

[Keenan]

 Eastern Red Cedar (ERC) Needs backed but will make a decent bow, as will allot of Cedars.  Most junipers that are in the Cedar family will make a great bow especially when backed with sinew.  True Cedars should be backed for safety. They can let go with no warning and the do explode spectacularly.
 Some Junipers can make a self bow if the right type. Mountain juniper is a very tough one that will make a self bow.

[sweeney3]

I recently made a 66" rawhide backed ERC that is shooting really well and has accounted for two deer so far this season.  Bear in mind that, as mentioned, some cedars are just that: cedar, while what we call Eastern Red Cedar is actually a juniper.  Usually needs a backing, but is very light so it shoots hard for its draw weight.  All in all a fine and pleasant wood.

[Stringman]

I wonder, would hickory or bamboo make a decent backing? Or better to go with rawhide or sinew?

[Keenan]

Sinew and juniper is excellent!  I have an ERC that I am just about ready to sinew. Just my preference. I tend to like sinew over other type of backing just because of the advantages it gives.

[fenciii]

how do I tell if the cedar that I have is juniper?

[blackhawk]

You'll know if you have eastern RED cedar(aka juniperus virginiana)by the color of its deep red to almost purple heartwood if the woods cut already. Also junipers will have a dark blue to black berry and not cones if your trying to id it as a tree. Also post a pic here and we'll id it

[fenciii]

It was not by your description...plus it was rotten...i was hoping it was ok...but it had several larva through out

[sonny]

fenciii, where are you ??
that will help us determine which "cedar" you're talking about.

probably not eastern red cedar that you're talking about as the heartwood is very rot resistant.