Thanks Redhand.
Greenriver, that Osage is amazing stuff. As long as it's dry and I don't over stress the wood it holds its profile incredibly well. When the string comes off, poof... right back to where it was before.
Bead, I never read that about the poundage. Cool.
Loon, you're right sir. I guess I could have lost an eye. Counting my blessings.
bj, thanks man. It's actually cherry bark, which is a good deal tougher than birch. I'm quite sure it would work on HHB, especially if wrapped nice and tight with bike inner tubes. Bet it would look sweet against that bone-white ironwood as well. I'd be happy to send you some if it's hard to come by where you're at. I've got lots and it's cheap to ship. Just PM me.