Definitely go to George's website. After years and years of fine tuning, editing, and careful consideration, it has become all you really need for the basics of a board bow build. Hundreds of people have come in here, been sent to that site, and nailed it on their first try! It really is the 101 class. You pass that class and you are well on your way to learning all the other facts, figures, philosophies, fallacies, and B.S.
That second board looks the best. I say put it in the corner and let it marinate in good vibes and loving feelings. Now take the other one, which still looks pretty dang good, and go to work. My philosophy is to start working on "good enough" wood because you ain't out much if/when you fail (and learn), then switch to good wood and learn how to really perfect your craft. Finally, switch to nasty, crappy, fugly wood to show off and make everyone understand you are the BOSS!
My reasoning is this: 1) you are learning the most basic stuff, including how the tools and the material work. These are the RULES! 2) then you are learning WHY the rules are the rules and how the science behind it works. 3) time to break the rules, and you cannot break the rules successfully until you know how to cheat them at their own game. It's the philosophy of Apprentice, Journeyman, and finally, Master.
