considering my first build

[shadow hunter 2]

I am considering trying to build my first selfbow. I know where there are some straight hickory trees are. My question is what is the smallest diameter should I be looking for.

[Roy from Pa]

I would say about 4 or 5 inches.

[Finding_The_Sweet_Spot]

For a flat bow, I'd go larger, something in the 8-12" range. Flatter rings make it easier for me. That said, I'm not the greatest of bowyers...

[DVSHUNTER]

Go with the biggest tree you can find. It will give toy more options and more staves. That being said you can make a bow out of almost any size tree, but if it less than 2 inches, let it grow.

[Eric Krewson]

You can go too big on hickories, 15" is a pretty big tree, I have my eye on a 24 incher but don't know if I want to tackle it or not.

I am a really experienced wood cutter but shy away from really big trees. If you can drive right up to it, that's one thing, if you are dragging the splits off a mountain the size of the tree you cut is a real consideration.

[KellyG]

Get some cut so it can dry and can start building.