Is this bois d'arc suitable for a bow?

[putnamm]

Hello, all. I am new to the forums. I am an experienced woodworker, focused primarily on musical instruments, eating implements and utensils. Last year I was fortunate enough to come in to some bois d'arc (Osage orange) from north Texas. It has been sitting in my workshop drying for all of that time.

I have attached pictures.

I am wondering if this wood would be suitable for making bows. I've wanted to make a selfbow for some time. (I've owned and read Clay Hayes' book multiple times.) I know that bois d'arc is usually considered a good wood for making bows. My main concerns about the wood is the natural bend in the wood, possibly being too severe. I also wonder if these pieces are too short, as they are each about 60" long.

If these pieces won't make good bows, then plan to break them down for instrument parts.

Thanks for your help.

-Mark

[Jamesh76]

Go ahead and make instrument parts. The cracking is severe as well as the excessive bend. It would take several steam treatments to get them realiveley straight. Even after that you would have to heat treat them to.hopefully keep straightness. The drying cracks look wide and likely deep. Yes, you can glue them bit they will likely open up again. I am not sure how thick they are but the borer holes appear to be in sapwood. To sum.it up. Could you build a bow? Maybe. Is it worth the effort? Not too me.

[Captainkirk]

I second that.