osage seasoning

[juniper junkie]

A question for all you yeller wood experts. I have a Osage log coming that is 9" diameter 6 ft. long, was recently cut and the ends sealed, I will be getting it in a week or so. my question: how long should I let the log set before splitting? He says the log looks straight and knot-free but you never know for sure until you split it. thanks for your help.

[Danzn Bar]

I'd split that sucker into staves...take off the sapwood and seal the back of all the staves in a day or so...................In my younger days.     
DBar

[osage outlaw]

I split them into quarters as soon as I cut the tree and get it home.  I'll split the quarters into staves whenever I get time.  Sometimes its right away and sometimes it might take a month or so.  I haven't noticed a difference between them.  Seal the ends several times and keep it out of heat and sunlight to prevent drying checks.

[Badger]

  You could even work it down into bow blanks after the split staves sit for a month or so. I am of the school that osage once dry continues to improve for about 5 years or so, but it will make a very decent bow just dry without seasoning. The bow will just improve with age.

[Danzn Bar]

Good info from Clint and Steve........ and the sapwood comes off much easier if it's green or wet.
DBar

[juniper junkie]

thanks for the help. I was worried more about warpage on the split staves.

[osage outlaw]

As long as you don't split them super small they shouldn't warp much