Vine Maple

[stefalo]

Hey TradGangers,

I have been working on a red oak board bow that I unfortunately popped the handle on at about 21"s of draw.  Glued a thin handle back on and I am working up the courage to start tillering it as a bend through handle bow.  I have also made a few PVC bows (hope I don't get shamed for this).  I actually found them quite satisfying to make.  Made a holmie style that pulls 46lb whips an arrow nicely and has taken 1/4" of set.

Ok now on to my real question.  I live in the Everett, WA area and would love to find some Vine Maple to try and harvest and get a stave.  Can't afford to buy a stave but want to get one drying so I can try a stave bow.  I understand it is abundant in the area I just have not seen it.  Any thoughts on location to cut would be great.

Thank you in advance,
Stefan

[timbermoose]

try giving brian a shout over at vinemaplebows. he is down that way in montesano or some place. i get my staves from him. he might be able to point you in the right direction or may even let you tag along, who knows, can't hurt to ask. being in everett, you've got an abundant supply of it. good luck.

[Brock]

I would talk to John Strunk or Gordon F who live near you...with John being one of the best bowyers around...period.

I will PM you his email address...he lives in Tillamook Oregon.

[stefalo]

Thanks guys I appreciate the info.
Thanks for the PM.
Pretty excited about trying a stave.

Stefan

[Sharpend60]

Vine maple is very easy to find.
Infact, I bet once someone confirms you have the right tree. You'll be shocked you havnt noticed it before.

Stever Meyer of Little Hindu forge, is a hell of a nice guy and decnt bowyer in his own right. I bet hed give ya some help.
Also, the is a 3d shhot in Topponish this weekend. You should attend, there is a large self bow community in WA. The TBW club is rather large and certainly worth being a part of.

[Sharpend60]

PS.

Black Hawk(?) aka Lon Scott is a long time member of this site and TBW. You could PM him and he'll point ya in the right direction.

Id help ya myself but am now in NewMexico.
VM is mt favorite bow, wood hands down.