backing a thin ringed osage.

[bradsmith2010]

i used to back alot of bows,,, just because I liked the way it looked,, very nice to put art work on etc,, and It can add protection for harsh use,, I agree optional most the time,, but sometimes if the back is compromised,, it could make a difference in the success of a bow,, Pope and Young liked to back their bows and stated they had a higher success rate when they did so,, their bows were heavy,, and the rawhide may have had a positive effect on wood that was under more strain,,or a lesser quality wood??? if you have alot of experience easy to tell if needed or not,,but if in doubt,, it will not hurt to back one,, and it is beautiful,,

[PEARL DRUMS]

If you see no need to back osage, odds are you have never used osage that needed a back  

[Rob W.]

Really the only reasons I was thinking about backing it was the thin rings and how rough on stuff I am while hunting. I will finish the season with it and decide later.

Thanks for all of the input.

[PEARL DRUMS]

If its not violated beyond repair, you don't need a back. If you cant get a clean back, it needs help.

[paulsemp]

Honestly most of the time I don't think it needs it but if I needed to make me feel better mentally while pulling it back I'll do it no questions asked.