River cane

[chigger]

I have a huge patch of River Cane ,the question how do you cut it,at the node ? & how long & diameter? Thanks

[Pat B]

 Cut the cane at the ground with at least a 3/8" base. At this time of year be sure it is at least a 2 year growth. I use hand pruners to cut cane. I then bind a bundle together to dry for a month or so.
 My hill cane finished arrows are basically 3/8" at the point end and 5/16" at the nock on a 30" arrow. I shoot these from bows from 45# to 60#.
 Do you know for sure what you have is river cane? Will you describe the cane?

[Eric Krewson]

Cut your cane about 4' long, I have a spine tester and move the cane back and forth on the tester after it dries and has been straightened to get the right spine for my bows.

I cut the big end of my cane about 1" in front of a node, glue a hardwood dowel in the 1" section and taper the point like I would any other arrow shaft. I carry a 3/8" box end wrench with me when I cut cane to use as a guide to quickly check diameter at the base befere I cut a cane.