Thanks a lot fella's. I appreciate it. Hammertime,that's just the heartwood in the handle that gives it the 2-tone look. Sidewinder,Slippery elm,Ulmus rubra, has a large,very rough leaf.I find it growing in the same habitat as E. Hophornbeam,in relatively low areas along creeks,and you should have it in Kansas.Look it up in a good tree book.It'll give you several identifying characteristics. Once you learn the leaf you can find them,although,finding a straight one is very much a challenge. We have plenty of the softer elms as well,and some of these will make a good bow,but it is hit or miss with them. I like this specie because the wood is very dense,and it heat treats well. And yes,this bow is heat treated. Thanks again to you all. God Bless
