purple heart bow design?

[chef-d405]

Hey all. Although I'm new to this forum, I am a long time reader of the magazine and I have been shooting self bows for 7ish years. I have a couple dozen finished bows under my belt. I have used this forum for reference in the past and I have always found it very helpful. I recently inherited a beautiful stave of purple heart from the widow of a bowyer who passed away. I would like to make it a fine bow in his honor. the stave measures 73" long by 1 1/2 " wide by 3/4" thick. Given the stave's dimensions. I feel an evenly bending D tiller may be my best bet. non- narrowed handle with slight bend. Shooting for 55-60 lb @ 29" I'm somewhat unfamiliar with purple heart as a bow wood however the density and feel of it reminds me of hickory, which is my usual preferred wood to work with for bows. I would like some suggestions on this wood before I take tools to it. Thanks!

[paulsemp]

I would say definitely needs a backing. Have had poor turn out as a belly. Probably best as a core on a tri lam. Have no personal experience to share on that but seen many others use as core

[mikekeswick]

It will make a belly but you'd better be good at tillering because it will chrysal quickly.
As Paul said it's mainly used as a core wood. Your piece is a good size for an elb. Be aware that the colour will fade to gray eventually.

[Badger]

  Purple heart is not a very good bow wood. I have made a few purple heart bows years ago. It is prone to chysaling and sudden unexpected failures.

[chef-d405]

Thanks guys. I'd hate to blow this thing apart out of my own ignorance. I'm plentt familiar with that heart sinking feeling that follows a loud "crack."

[bubby]

I would back it with maple and stay as wide as possible at fades straight taper to tips

[JoJoDapyro]

I have one in the works as well. It throws slivers like no other, and it is hard. I am planning to back mine with bamboo.