Black Locust

[LaBill67]

Question for you experienced bowyers out there.  With black locust would there be any problems like checking and such if I went ahead and took a green stave down to the heartwood in order to speed up the drying process?  I appreciate your input.

[Pat B]

You can remove the sapwood but be sure to seal the back and ends. You can also take it down to 3/4" thick and full width to help it dry quicker just don't stress it until it is dry. You might want to clamp it to a 2x4 to prevent it from twisting while drying.

[LaBill67]

Will do, thanks Pat B.

[Eric Krewson]

I would put as much sealer on the back as you do on the ends or your stave will check green.

[Phil-D]

What is the reason for not sealing the belly when you are sealing the back and ends?

[Roy from Pa]

To let moisture out.

The back and ends are important bow parts, but the belly wood will be removed.

When moisture escapes from wood it can cause it to check/split.

[LaBill67]

Eric I will surely seal the back and thanks for pointing that out.  I would have went ahead and sealed the belly had Roy not commented on leaving it unsealed to let the moisture out.  Thanks Roy.

[Roy from Pa]

 

[Crooked Stic]

I have sealed my ends and back and my belly has gotten bigger 

[Roy from Pa]

Didn't happen wif out pichers:)

[Soonerlongbow]

Didn't happen wif out pichers:)