The fact that yew is more susceptible than hardwoods to temperature changes was remarked on by L.W. Maxson, USA target archery champion 1888-1893. He wrote Chapter 16 "Archery in the United States", of the Badminton book "Archery", published in 1894. Concerning bois d'arc he wrote (page 469):
"The dense bone-like wood is little affected by changes in temperature, and retains nearly its full power after long-continued use. This is an essential quality for a bow in America, for, even during the course of a summer day, the range of temperature and humidity of the atmosphere are such as greatly to alter the cast of a weapon made from any of the softer woods. As a result, a lance or other hard-wood bow is preferred by most archers to the finest yew."
