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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: troutremble on April 06, 2009, 10:09:00 PM

Title: New wood type
Post by: troutremble on April 06, 2009, 10:09:00 PM

Moving to Texas soon and will have access to a bunch of crepe myrtle at my mom's house. I understand it is a tropical hardwood (.75 SG) and would make some great bows. A lot of what I will be able to cut is about 2" to 3" in diameter and somewhat straight. Has anyone worked with this much, does it staighten easily, potential pitfalls? Also, would small straight shoots make goog arrow shafts? Any input would be welcome.

Title: Re: New wood type
Post by: Pat B on April 06, 2009, 10:36:00 PM

I have never made a bow of Crepe Myrtle but know of a guy that has made a few with it. He even made a war bow of near 100#(if I remember correctly). Most crepe myrtle I've seen is pretty straight except for some older trees.
  The shoots should make good shafts. Might as well give them a try too.

Title: Re: New wood type
Post by: troutremble on April 07, 2009, 08:47:00 PM

Thanks Pat. I will be looking for 55-60#s for bows and I need(want) some hardwood shafts so I will give it a try.