Moso vs. Tonkin cane

[mmgrode]

Hey gang,
    between these two species of bamboo(tonkin cane and moso) which is better for bow backing? I really want to know how moso compares to tonkin cane, which I've used before and had good results with.  Thanks in advance for the help. Cheers, Matt

[wingnut]

Matt,

It depends on what you ask it too do.  I know guys that have never had a problem with Moso.  Mostly because they build mild R/D bows or straight limbs in mid weights.  I found that as I asked more of the bow the Moso could not keep up.  After we found Tonkin, our problems stopped and we have had very few bamboo failures even on the most radical bow designs.

Mike

BTW it's tonkin bamboo not tonkin cane.

[WildmanSC]

Actionboo for cores or backing with any "pretty" wood you desire for a veneer.

Bill

[wingnut]

Bill,

He isn't using glass.  He's building "all natural" bows.  Actionboo won't do the trick.

LOL

Mike

[mmgrode]

Thank you for your experiences Mike. Anyone else have experience with these two(pros or cons of each)? Cheers, Matt