Worked on a nice-looking 65" hickory-backed walnut. Was tillering out slowly and made it to 24". Had just done some light scraping, put it back on the tree for 30 pulls and then a recheck with the tillering block. Got my marks on it and then, "Tick... Tick... Tick-" I started backing away. "Tick-tick-tick-tick-tick-BAM!"
Post-mortem shows that my lamination was just fine. I just think it was too much draw weight for that light wood. I don't think HD walnut is as good as a stave. Might do better at 70"+ and something closer to 35-40#.
Time is running out so I'm opting for a design & materials I've gotten to work several times in the past. I've had fun experimenting. Now it's time to get something done.