Different woods for arrows?

[Don Armstrong]

I have used several different type shaft woods. POC makes good shafts but aren't very tough. Ash makes a VERY tough shaft, but way to heavy for my set up. Doug fir is a little tougher than POC and could be my go to shaft. I have some Stika spruce coming to try. I may just be expecting to much but was hoping for a tough medium weight shaft but so far, haven't found it yet. Any help or opinions would be appricated. Thanks, Don

[Orion]

Sitka Spruce is likely to be lighter than cedar and about of the same durability.  Doug fir is a good intermediate.  Is sometimes a little brittle and it's sometimes hard to find good Doug fir, but good stuff is quite durable and about 10-20% heavier than cedar.

Chundoo (pine) and ramin are also a little heavier and more durable than cedar.  My experience with them is limited, but a lot of folks like them.

[varmint]

Birch is my favorite........heavy,but not too heavy.Tough,and not too hard to straighten.Most of my arrows come out at about 640gr w/125g WW on the front.

[KodiakBob]

Whispering Wind Hex pines are pretty tough,

[jchunt4ever]

So far with my limited experience, I am going to have to agree with Varmint on this one. White Birch is exactly what you describe, middle weight and much more durable than cedar. Also, note that I said limited experience, I have only tried Cedar and White Birch, but judging from others' comments Birch seems to be just about perfect. The problem that I have is I can't find any where to get them anymore.

Varmint, do you know where a person can pick some up?

[fatman]

jchunt,

try  www.thenockingoint.com  for laminated birch

[varmint]

I come by it hit and miss.If I have an opportunity I'll buy 4 dozen or so at the time since I never know when I'll be able to get it again.So,I guess to answer your question,I have no regular reliable source unfortunately.

[Aeronut]

I shoot a lot of Poplar.  It's a little heavier and tougher than cedar and it is easy to straighten.  It is between cedar and Pine on weight.

Dennis

[Don Armstrong]

Thanks guys, I think I'm going to look into getting some birch and poplar to try. Don

[doctari]

I am looking for some Hickory or Ash 11/32 tapered to 5/16 shafts. I could taper them myself too. I need them spined at 65-70#. I would like two-three dozen. I want to make some big game arrow's for elk and bear.