should i proceed?

[sadiejane]

ok so i have this old osage fence post
actually just a smallish stave outta it.
its a lovely piece of wood, rich and dark all the way thru(prolly 100+ yrs old)
but in very rough shape. some damage from rot(i think i can skin down below that)
and ultra thin rings-like 1/16 at most, many 1/32"!
rather shortish-about 52" but it looks like about 2-3" will need to come off one end.

so...was thinking of taking it to a ring(if at all possible and may not be)
leaving it as wide as possible and sinewing it.
even if i cant pull off a perfect ring do you guys think i can make a short draw, light weight bow outta it?
did i mention it has numerous tiny knots the entire length?(much easier to see from the inside)
and checks here and there
or do ya think i'd be wasting my time and sinew?
i'm willing to give it a go if there is any chance of pulling a bow outta there

[Bevan R.]

Sounds like a great learning project if nothing else. I know George likes working old post.

[Elktracker]

I think you could pull a bow out of it the hard part would be chasing a ring on rings that tight. I am no expert on Osage but I have a Osage stave John Strunk just gave me and it is very tight rings also I plan on backing it, not sure with what yet. Got any pictures of it? I wouldnt think a little checking here and there wouldn't hurt anything as long as they run with the grain. Probably better wait for the Osage pros to weigh in on this one. Good luck
 
Josh

[Pat B]

You won't know until you try.     52" is short so I'd get it bending at least up to the handle if not through it. Save the sinew until you see if it is going to work out for you first. As long as you are learning it is not a waste of time! 
  A temporary rawhide backing might be enough protection until you get it tillered.

[Gus]

Yes Ma'am!

Even though my bow building history is fairly short, I vote for giving her a Go!

In a similar situation I urge myself to, "Study it well", "Take My Time", and "Proceed with Determination".



-gus