I have never shot the Martin so I will leave that subject to the other here.
as for self-Bows you mention Hickory, Oak they are good but Osage is Best but I recomend you start with the others Osage has twist, turns, and knots most Bowyers call this the snake wood. You have to fallow the grain of the wood to keep it from splintering and busting. let me know I will email you more information if you would like.