Hickory
denser and stiffer than both white oak and hard maple.
Color Range
Color Contrast: Hickory is famous for its "Calico" look, featuring sharp contrasts between creamy-white sapwood and tan to deep reddish-brown heartwood.
Grain
The grain is typically straight but can be wavy or irregular, with a coarse texture similar to ash or oak
Texture
Rustic Character: Boards frequently contain natural "imperfections" like knots, mineral streaks, and "bird pecks" (small holes from sapsuckers), which are often celebrated in cabin-style or upscale farmhouse designs.
Other Names
Shellbark hickory, Hickory, Big shagbark hickory, Kingnut
Typical Uses
High-Impact Tools: The industry standard for axe, hammer, and pick handles. Sporting Goods: Used for drumsticks, lacrosse sticks, and traditionally for baseball bats and skis. Flooring & Cabinets: A top choice for high-traffic residential flooring and "distressed" or rustic kitchen cabinetry. Flavoring: Beyond construction, hickory is prized as a fuel for smoking meats due to its high thermal energy and distinct aroma.
Weight
4.16
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lbs /Bd. Ft. | 16.20% heavier than red oak (3.58 /bd. ft.)
Hardness
1880
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Janka Rating | 45.74% harder than red oak (1290 psi)
Density
0.64
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Specific Gravity | Same as red oak (.64)
Strength, Stability, and Durability
Stability Warning: Hickory has a high shrinkage rate during drying. Because it is highly sensitive to humidity changes, it can warp or shrink more than other hardwoods if not properly seasoned and sealed.
Workability / Finishing
Machining Challenges: Due to its extreme density, hickory is notoriously difficult to work. It can quickly dull cutting tools and is prone to "tearout" or splintering if blades are not kept razor-sharp. Bending and Finishing: It is an excellent wood for steam-bending. While it takes stains well, its tight and varying grain can sometimes make it more challenging to finish uniformly compared to softer hardwoods