Anyone know a good guide on tree identification???

[Keith Wolfe]

Out at my folks 30 minutes from my house. I know how to identify osage and pecan but wish i knew how to identify other trees for bow wood. 40 of our 65 acres wooded sloping down gradually in riparian creek woods. Tons of trees but i dont know what they are!!!!

[KenH]

This time of year it's really hard to ID tree species.  If you local extension agent doesn't have a freebie guide to trees, the best I know of (as a former forester myself) is the Peterson Field Guide series "A Field Guide To Eastern Trees" (Eastern US and Canada.  If you're west of the Mississip  there is also a 'Western Trees' volume.   

[Pat B]

The Peterson's Guide or Audubon Tree Guild or like Ken said your local Extension Service or check with the State University. Maybe your folks or a neighbor could help.

[Keith Wolfe]

Thanks, I ordered both. Going to cut some osage tomorrow after I hunt. I know there a few types of oaks but don't know how to tell.

[OkKeith]

My Wife (also a Forester and a Texan) completely agrees with Ken!

She also recommended the Trees of Texas Tree Guide by Stan Tekiela.

OkKeith

[Keith Wolfe]

Thanks, I'll check that one out too. Found some incredible straight osage easily today. Cutting down tomorrow.

[Keith Wolfe]

Found many nice small to medium straight branches of osage without cutting down a whole tree. They range from 1.5" to 7-8" diameter. What is y'alls preferred size in this scenario. 6-8ft sections straight or natural reflex. Many options. Cutting with reciprocating saw tomorrow after I hunt. Thanks

[Pat B]

I've made some really nice "pole" bows with 2" diameter shoots. I saw them in half lengthwise and bind them back together with small pieces of wood between to allow good air circulation. I don't worry about reflex now but add it later. With these small diameter poles you use sapwood and heartwood. Generally there isn't much heartwood anyway. I've made bows up to about 60# like this.
 7" to 8" diameter stuff is good and you'll get 3 or 4 staves from each.