backing a selfbow

[littlejohn]

i posted a while back asking if anyone thought Meranti was possible as a choice of wood for a selfbow. Got it for next to nix...grain looks good.
As per Jacko's advice I think i'll attempt a backing. I was thinking of trying a timber backing...
I have a strip of oregon lying around that looks like its waiting to be used. Do you think oregon is ok for this??
How thick should I leave the backing strip????
Do I have to taper the backing strip towards the tips???
Thanks..Pete

[woodie]

I do not know much but I think you will be wasting time using oregon in bows other than in handles or for making arrows. I also think you should find a better timber to make a bow out of, but as I said I do not know much.
woodie

[Mububban]

I've been told that American white ash is okay for backing strips.

Maybe 4mm thick all the way along?

[looseplucker]

Hickory is good if you can get it. Spotted gum makes a good backing too.