Also what would be one of the best starter bow woods that isn't hickory or osage?
In my opinion, osage is not the best starter bow wood, but opinions will vary.
Good bow woods that also respond well to quick drying (which again, osage will not) are maple, ash, elm, oak, hazel or hickory. I don't know what grows in your area, but any of these makes a good bow. Don't spend hours of driving around looking for hickory, if you have elm growing right next to your house.
