Hickory bow

[mzombek]

Guys,
I am thinking of building a board bow. I want to put some type of backing, but not sure what.
Where can I buy hickory bow blanks with good ring growth? I don't want a pre tillered or pre cut. I looked at a couple of lumber yards, found nothing that I wanted to put a lot time into.
Thanks,
Z

[eagleone]

Try pine hollow, they are a sponsor here and I think they have boards and backing.

[sulphur]

don't buy the hickory dimensional lumber from 3rivers.  its intended for a backed bow and is not even good for that.  wavy grained, knot filled.  Maple and ash also make good board bows.  If you cant find some good hickory those may be an option.  for that matter, i have had good luck with red oak from hd or lowes.

[mzombek]

Do I need to look for quarter sawn or any grain type wood

[LESKEN2011]

Quarter sawn white oak is sometimes easier to find. I have had good success with it. I have heard bowyers with more experience say it breaks after hickory. I have used it for backing material and belly material with success. If you still don't trust it unbacked, you could back it with silk, linen, or rawhide.

[7 Lakes]

Sulphur is 100% right.  Do not under any circumstances think 3 Rivers Hickory is the answer.  Even though expert "Dave" says it can be resawed into backings for heavy weight war bows it's just not true.  

It cannot be sawn into backings nor can it be used for bow building.  Call me and I'll send pictures of the 4 pieces I was sent.  Still trying to get my money back.

[bowhntineverythingnh03743]

Kenny m might be able to help ya...or pine hollow has great lumber. The paste soars n bamboo I get from them have been top notch.