Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: juniper junkie on April 04, 2016, 06:36:31 pm
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A question for all you yeller wood experts. I have a Osage log coming that is 9" diameter 6 ft. long, was recently cut and the ends sealed, I will be getting it in a week or so. my question: how long should I let the log set before splitting? He says the log looks straight and knot-free but you never know for sure until you split it. thanks for your help.
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I'd split that sucker into staves...take off the sapwood and seal the back of all the staves in a day or so...................In my younger days. :) ;)
DBar
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I split them into quarters as soon as I cut the tree and get it home. I'll split the quarters into staves whenever I get time. Sometimes its right away and sometimes it might take a month or so. I haven't noticed a difference between them. Seal the ends several times and keep it out of heat and sunlight to prevent drying checks.
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You could even work it down into bow blanks after the split staves sit for a month or so. I am of the school that osage once dry continues to improve for about 5 years or so, but it will make a very decent bow just dry without seasoning. The bow will just improve with age.
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Good info from Clint and Steve........ and the sapwood comes off much easier if it's green or wet.
DBar
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thanks for the help. I was worried more about warpage on the split staves.
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As long as you don't split them super small they shouldn't warp much