I'm on the list with a local bowyer for a take down longbow. I know I want a cocobolo riser and bamboo limb cores. I'm undecided on what I want to do on my limb veneers. The three options I keep flipping around in my head are:
1) red cedar or juniper, with a few knot holes and good color contrast
2) tulipwood with good colors contrast
3) osage or maple with a set of copperhead skins
That said, has anybody ran into issues with snake skins on a hunting bow being a little fragile? While I love the look, I am a little concerned that it might not be the best option for a bow that will be hunted through thick woods and at times in poor weather over the years.