Hickory

Hickory heartwood tends to be light to medium brown, with a reddish hue; sapwood is a paler yellowish brown. Grain is usually straight, though occasionally wavy, with a medium texture. Hickory is among the hardest and strongest of woods native to the United States. On average, Hickory is denser, stiffer, and harder than white oak or hard maple. The wood is commonly used where strength or shock-resistance is important. Hickory is difficult to work, however glues, stains, and finishes well. Responds well to steam bending.