Which size to start a bow with?

[chuk101]

Reading several places, some say to start with a 2 inch sapling and start carving.  Some say start with a 4 inch tree, and use it in halves or split it in quarters.  Others say cut a larger tree, and split it in 2-3 inch sections.  I'm guessing the the type of wood has much to do with which one is easier, but what is everyones opinion of which makes a better bow, as far as drawweight and long lasting?  Thanks in advance for answers.

[Bevan R.]

I started with a white ash board from a lumberyard. Still have that bow.

[Pat B]

Wood is wood. Any of these senerios will work well and make a quality bow(s). I think if you have access to a tree that you can get more than one stave from cut it. You will eventually build more bows and will have plenty of seasoned wood to work with. You can build a quality bow from a 2" sapling also so take your pick and get to bow building. 

[DRon knife]

I'm with Pat on the sapling,if your just getting started a sapling can be a good way to go! Depending on the type of wood you choose,you can just remove the bark and there's the back of the bow...no ring chasing!! Ron

[chuk101]

Thanks, all.  I am afraid of ring chasing.  I had a 2" mulberry cut and drying in my back yard last fall, the city came thru cutting trees around power lines, and took it with all the other limbs.  Back to looking for another...

[Pat B]

Next time store your bow wood under cover and where it won't be mistaken for yard debris. 

[dwardo]

Use what ever wood you can get hold off, or carry quickly in the dark without anyone noticing. 

[Del the cat]

One of the points about primitive bows is working with what you have.
If forced to suggest, I say 3-4" split in two, that way you can work and learn on one half while the other is seasoning more slowly.
The best stave is the one you have, not the one you are dreaming about.
The important thing is to start.
Once you start people will be keen to offer help...
Del

[Slackbunny]

Board bows are a great thing to start with because you can start your build as soon as you pick up your board. No drying required.

But if you are set on using a stave, I've read that it is easier to start with a fairly large diameter tree because you split it down to staves you get a relatively flat back, and a fairly square piece to work with. I've only ever tried saplings, so I can't confirm that personally, but it makes sense.

[crooketarrow]

  Anyone of these will make a bow. I think even for begainers a stave bow is best. Alot better chance of it makeing it though mistakes where a board or sapling won't. But in the hands of someone exsperanced sapling bows are a close second.
  A stave makes a better all around bow. Before anyone starts saying this and that. I'm not saying you have'nt made a nice bow from these. IN GENERAL either won't stand up to a stave bow. When it comes to out lasting ,makeing a bow through the mistakes or looks in general.
  Not saying this is right on wong. Just the way I've come to see it through years of building bows.

[JackCrafty]

Start with the size that will give you the flattest back without having to chase a ring.  And make sure the wood is completely dry and free of cracks, bug holes, large knots, or mold.

[PAHunter]

Hey Chuk101,

I'm a bit of a noob also.  I just finished my 3rd bow and am working on my 4th.  First was hickory log, 2nd and 3rd were Red Oak board from Lowes, and now I'm working on Elm and Osage.  I'd suggest starting with a board board.  Becuase they are easiest and quickest and it will give you something to shoot while you plan other projects.  Get volume 1 of the Traditional Bowyer's Bible and read up.  It will explain the many types of woods that are good.  I posted a video of my making my last board bow which may be useful to you:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Y7inwBgm38



This site will also walk you throuogh exactly what to do:  http://poorfolkbows.com/

Best of luck!

[bubby]

get your wood and split it and seal it up and then getr a nice hickory or white oak board and make some bows while the staves season, remember a board is just a decrowned staveand there aint a darn thing wrong with them, Bub