I don't see a lot of differences other than most times you end up with a stave that is full of knots. At least with boards they are dry and you can pick through the pile to find the best piece. I got one from Home Repo a while back, it broke. It broke in an obvious spot because the wood looked somewhat punky. I could not see that it was inside.
At any rate you can end up with a decrowned stave and a board piece that are identical in grain structure.
![Wink ;)](http://www.primitivearcher.com/smf/Smileys/default/wink.gif)
I agree there is a relationship between the bowyer and a stave with the final product that is pride in workmanship. On the other hand you have the chemical laminated bows, one piece units selling for $1000.00.
My bow may not shoot as well nor outlast it, but at least it is a bow I built for very little cost.....
![Grin ;D](http://www.primitivearcher.com/smf/Smileys/default/grin.gif)
There is an old saying it's not the Tool That Makes The Man, but it's knowing what to do with the tool that you have......
![laugh :laugh:](http://www.primitivearcher.com/smf/Smileys/default/laugh.gif)