I don't have the balls to try an unbacked erc....even tho I've seen it done....the odds are never in your favor taking that route IMO...its not hard and doesn't take long to throw some rawhide down IMHO,and is quick easy insurance that I will pay for .... Up to you man!!!
Let's see some pics of this stave...it better be primo tighter ringed wood with ZERO knots...and preferably tension side wood if possible...show us the goods and we'll tell ya if yea or nay if its worth taking that gamble....but I'll still tell ya to back it even if ya do show us and it meets the aforementioned requirements...
Gun doc has also made one with quite the long hole in it...not sure how many arras he has put thru it since made tho?
I'd like to know...maybe he'll see this and chime in