Hickory Board Bow

[Dogpaddlin]

Hello all, this is my first post and I thought I would start off with an introduction before diving into my questions.  My name is Toby and I live just north of Houston, Tx.  I love to do just about anything that allows me to be outside, but most specifically I like to hunt and fish.  A few years ago I got started building wooden kayaks and canoes (hence the screen name Dogpaddlin).  I just recently finished a 16ft cedar strip that took me almost two years to complete!  I have been looking for another project, hopefully one that would not require such a great time commitment.  That is when I stumbled on this site and have been lurking here ever since quietly reading and digesting LOTS of good info.

I made an attempt and a red oak self bow which I botched and will be cutting down into a kids bow for my nephew's Christmas present.  I stopped by the local hardwood supplier to pick up some hickory for my next attempt, which brings me to my first question.  The guy at the lumber yard told me here in the South they group hickory and pecan together and sell them as one and the same.  Is this true?  

Also, I am completely new to archery and the art of bowyering. Does anyone know of any groups in the Houston area that would not mind showing a newbie the ropes as far as shooting, proper form, etc.?

Thanks in advance.
Toby

[Stiks-n-Strings]

Welcome to the bench Toby.

 Check out this link on board bows in the how to section.

  http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=000122

 I been doing some reading up on building a canoe. Might drop you a PM some time. Look forward to seeing some pics of your first bow. Always a helping crowd here on TG. These folks here taught me all I know.

 Stiks

[dmikeyj]

Pecan and hickory are indeed sold as one and the same in many places down here.  Pecan is not quite as strong as hickory, but you can make a bow from it just the same.
 

Welcome, and good luck with your project.

Mike

[Dogpaddlin]

So is there any way to tell which I got or is it a safe bet it is pecan?

Stiks, be careful if getting into boat building, it is also VERY addictive!  If you decide to try your hand I can turn you on to some good websites.

[Sal]

If the grain is straight, it'll make a bow regardless if its hickory or pecan.  

There is a way to tell, but it involves a magnifying glass and a knowing eye.  Its got something to do with the pores.

[George Tsoukalas]

Welcome! Check my site on board info. Stick with it. You'll get it. Jawge