A question about Ipe and Osage

[psychmonky]

A friend and I were discussing backings for Ipe and Osage bows, and he asked if anyone ever uses one to back the other. I can't recall ever hearing about an Osage backed Ipe or an Ipe backed Osage, so I figured I'd ask you guys.

Has it been done? If not, what are the properties of the woods that make it a bad plan?

[vanillabear?]

[psychmonky]

Well that's a start. Does it make an ok bow or are there issues?

[vanillabear?]

[psychmonky]

Maybe I'll try one and if it works ill make it my swap bow....

[Osagetree]

Sounds like you got a challange. I don't think it will hold up either way.

Now, a tri-lam IPE core, Osage belly & backed with Hickory would be a good start to a nice looking and performing bow.

[psychmonky]

You know more about this stuff than I do, Osagetree. Can I ask why you think that?

[Roy from Pa]

Just make it monkeyboy, if your gonna be dumb, ya gotta be tuff.

[psychmonky]

Something I've learned the hard way more times than I'd like to admit, Roy. That's why I'm gathering info first!

[Osagetree]

If I knew much it wouldn't have taken 3 tries!

             

[4runr]

Dang, Joe!!! That is SWEET!!!

I've thought about that too but can't mess with IPE. I wanna breathe a little while longer.

[Roy from Pa]

I can't get anywhere near IPE dust, it tore me up bad 3 years ago. Still have problems from it.
Howdy, Kenny.

[red hill]

Gorgeous bow, Joe! Is that hickory backing with your camo stain?
I love the 5 curve design.
Stan

[4runr]

Hey Roy.

[D]

The osage backed ipe might work and I stress might.  That would be the only one that I would try.  I would not use ipe as a backing, but thats just my opinion.

And that bow is feaking awsome.

[John Scifres]

Try it.  Post pics.