Oak youth bow

[SJTalley2004]

I've been reading this site, mainly this section, for the last couple weeks. I can't stand it anymore, and have given in to the urge to build a bow. So, last evening, I went behind my in-law's house to see what I might find. The best that I could scrounge from what was already on the ground was a small oak log, about 7-8 feet long, around 5 inches thick. It's been on the ground for probably 2 years. The goal is to build a youth longbow for my 10 year old son. Is it advisable that I seek a better piece of lumber for this project, or can I make this work? I'll see about getting a couple pictures of it tomorrow, if need be.

[Crimson mist]

White woods start decaying as soon as they hit the ground so you might want to think about cutting fresh wood and seasoning it or a board bow which is how many of us started

[Eric Krewson]

Been on the ground too long and won't be good for bow building. If it had been osage it would have still been fine because osage is very rot resistant.

[Eric Krewson]

Another thing, I always back youth bows with bamboo. The thought of a youngster having a bow blow up and being injured is always on my mind.

Bamboo will keep a bow from failing, at least in the kaboom, dramatic fashion.

Hickory would be my  choice for an unbacked youth bow. It is a very tough wood and won't blow up like oaks will when they fail.

[SJTalley2004]

Thanks for the insight guys. I'll just use the wood for firewood, and go to the local woodworkers supply store and buy a bit of Hickory.

[Pluck Yew]

LOTS of Osage in Missouri!!..

  :D  

Shawn...