MN Bow Wood

[CB59]

Hello, I’m new to bow making and I have white ash boards that I would like to start with if possible. Does anybody have experience with ash or should I use another species of wood such as maple or hickory? Also, I would like to find my own staves for future projects; does anybody have a recommendation for a MN tree species that will make a decent hunting bow. Thank you.

[Holm-Made]

Hop Hornbeam aka ironwood make the best staves in MN, imho.  This is the best time to cut them as the sap is down.  I’m not sure about board bows.

[CB59]

Thank you for the advice about using ironwood.

[tod becker]

Most iron wood is twisted so make sure to look at the bark before cutting your tree.  If you don't have any in your area and are in the Mankato area I can hook you up.

[CB59]

Thank you for the tip and offer. If I can’t find what I need I will let you know. Thanks.

[Holm-Made]

Right on, if the bark spirals around the tree, it’s a good bet the grain does too.  Try to find one with at least 6” diameter.  Bigger the better.  It will make the back of bow more flat.

[Joe Jewett]

CB59, I think I still know of a few places from my logging days with good ironwood. I could help you out too if needed.

[CB59]

Thanks for the offer Joe. I know I have ironwood trees on my property but I need to get out into the woods and figure out if they are suitable for making a bow. If I can’t find what I need I will let you know, thanks.

[CB59]

I really appreciate the advice Holm-Made about the twisted trees and finding a tree 6” or greater in diameter.