If Memory Serves, (dont bet any money ok?      

I've seen them done but never done one myself. I'd think there are better sources for bow materials. The last time I looked for a shovel or ax handle, I had trouble finding a decent one with good grain for it's intended use much less a bow.

I think more are made from ash,or at least,used to be.I'm sure hickory would make great handles though.I remember watching my grandfather make pick and axe handles from ash.

like JimB said..more are made from ash around here.   either way ash is good bow wood too.  although most tool handles are way too short for bow staves even if backed.

Primitive Archer had a story on that years ago. check out the archives and see what it says. pretty sure they used Ash pick ax handles.

hey brother i would leave the  hick handles alone they wont make good bows trust me i know been there done that thats when i started to buy american white ash boards at $80 a pop.  

I live 3 miles from one of the largest tool handle mills in the US. Handles are made from ash and hickory. Just bought a set of large wheelbarrow handles for $10, should last 10 times longer than the chinese junk Lowes sells.


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QuoteOriginally posted by Pat B:
I've seen them done but never done one myself. I'd think there are better sources for bow materials. The last time I looked for a shovel or ax handle, I had trouble finding a decent one with good grain for it's intended use much less a bow.

Ditto on the quality.  You won't find anything worth your money in any local hardware store (even the mom 'n pop joints) for a axe/maul/mattoon handle so I'd doubt they'd be good for a bow...I've looked far and wide.  Ended up going to fiberglass handles for that sole reason alone.

I had a friend make a takedown from some hickory handles.  It worked fine.  Properly chosen, they are a viable option.  Cheaper options are available though.  But for $15 or so, you should be able to get some bow wood.