I noticed these bushes where I hunt and identified them as some strain of honeysuckle. There were many almost perfectly straight shoots to pick from and I thought it maight make a good bush arrow material.
I intend to get me some and try it soon but, if anyone knows of any bad characteristics of this possible shafting material I wont harvest it or waste my time.
Anyone ever use this for bush arrows with success?
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v323/Osagetree/DSC_1184.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v323/Osagetree/DSC_1181.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v323/Osagetree/DSC_1182.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v323/Osagetree/DSC_1179.jpg)
it is an invasive spieces,from asia. just like asian carps, should be eradicated. i dont think it would be a very good arrow material,since it kind of a loose fiber, i might be wrong though.
Invasive huh? Yep, seems to be taking over around here. Thanks for the input.
Anyone else?
Definitely a nasty, invasive bush that spreads like wildfire!! Invasive species of honeysuckles usually have hollow pith in the center and the material is kind of spongy around this, at least on the stems that are large enough for arrows that is. Both may be deal breakers when it comes to making arrows. There are "native" species of honeysuckle out there but they are predominantly classified as vines, the invasive ones are typically bush type with erect stems like the ones in your picture some of which look "straight as an arrow" :-)
Hate the stuff... It also has a tendency to crack and split down the sides when it dries. I hope they come up with a blight for it soon.
I've seen some awesome arrows made from the stuff but some of the toughest I've ever seen were made from multiflora rose.
God bless,Mudd
One way to find out! Cut some and see how it goes. If it is pithy in the center it could be a problem but if the woody part dries hard, could be a great arrow.
The japanese honeysuckle that grows down here is an invasive vine and not suitable. The best native plants in my area are dogwood, viburnum and river cane. I have viburnum growing on my property and have used it quite a bit. Makes a tough shaft but it tends to be heavy.
The native honeysuckles around here are pretty small and weak, nothing I would make an arrow out of (even if I knew how). I haven't seen an invasive variety yet.