Old Growth Hickory represents several species of hickory that grew to maturity in the virgin hardwood forests of eastern North America. These trees, primarily Shagbark Hickory, Shellbark Hickory, and Pignut Hickory, lived for 200-300 years, developing the exceptional strength and toughness characteristics that made hickory the preferred wood for tool handles, wagon wheels, and other applications requiring maximum impact resistance and flexibility.
Old Growth Hickory displays light brown to medium brown heartwood with contrasting pale sapwood. The grain is typically straight but can show some irregularity, with a coarse texture due to the prominent pore structure. The wood has a natural luster that responds well to finishing, and the grain patterns can be quite attractive when properly surfaced. The growth rings are clearly defined, creating subtle but attractive figure in the finished wood.
The defining characteristic of Old Growth Hickory is its incredible toughness and shock resistance. This wood is legendary for its ability to withstand repeated impact without breaking, making it the preferred choice for axe handles, hammer handles, and other striking tools. The long, slow growth of old-growth trees produced wood with maximum strength and flexibility, qualities that cannot be replicated in faster-growing second-growth timber.
Working with Old Growth Hickory requires patience and sharp tools due to its extreme density and toughness. The wood can be challenging to machine and may require slower feed rates and frequent tool sharpening. However, it turns beautifully on the lathe and takes finishes well once properly prepared. The wood’s natural toughness makes it ideal for applications requiring durability and impact resistance.
Legendary Toughness – This wood provides unmatched shock resistance and impact strength, making it the gold standard for applications requiring extreme durability.
Exceptional Flexibility – The wood can bend without breaking under extreme stress, a characteristic that made it essential for wagon wheels and tool handles.
Maximum Density – Old Growth Hickory ranks among the hardest and heaviest North American woods, providing superior strength in demanding applications.
Straight Grain Structure – Long grain fibers provide maximum strength and flexibility, contributing to the wood’s legendary toughness and reliability.
Tool Handle Quality – This species remains the gold standard for impact tool handles due to its unique combination of strength, flexibility, and shock absorption.
Natural Durability – The dense structure resists wear and compression, making it suitable for applications where other woods would fail.