RE: laminated birch
Don't think I have tried them, but folks are bad to flock to something "new and improved". One thing I was told about laminated shafting (was discussing the laminated pine shafts with a fellow)--if they are glued up straight, they generally stay straight, but if not, you will not get them straight.
If you try them, let us know how it goes.
Chad
Long Bows Rule!