I am not an expert on oak, but I dont think you could go wrong with splitting into a stave,, ends coated of course,,taking off the bark,, and coating the back,, putting in a cooo dry place to cure,, someplace not to heated,,,, if you are impatient like me,, rough it to shape of bow,, coat the back and handle area,, and it will dry faster,, strap into place so it does not twist the wrong way when drying,,