Hickory wood is remarkably dense and heavy, weighing 4.25 pounds per board foot. This characteristic contributes to its exceptional strength and durability, making it one of the hardest woods available for various applications.
Understanding the measurement: A "board foot" is a standard unit of lumber volume, equivalent to a piece of wood 12 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 1 inch thick. Therefore, a single board foot of hickory wood has a substantial weight of 4.25 pounds.
Hickory's Weight Compared to Other Woods
Hickory's density places it among the heavier hardwood species. To provide a clearer perspective, here's how it compares to some other common lumber types in terms of weight per board foot:| Lumber Species | Pounds per Board Foot |
|---|---|
| Hickory or Pecan | 4.25 |
| Lyptus | 4.4 |
| Hard Maple | 3.8 |
| Mahogany | 3.45 |
As seen in the table, hickory is heavier than popular hardwoods like Hard Maple and Mahogany, and is comparable in weight to Lyptus, highlighting its significant density.
Why Hickory's Weight Matters
The substantial weight of hickory is a direct result of its high density, which in turn contributes to its outstanding physical properties. This density makes hickory:- Extremely Hard and Durable: It offers superior resistance to dents, scratches, and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or applications requiring robustness.
- Strong and Resilient: Hickory is renowned for its excellent strength and shock resistance, capable of absorbing impact without breaking.
- Versatile: Its weight and strength make it a preferred choice for:
- Tool Handles: Such as hammers, axes, and shovels, where shock absorption and durability are crucial.
- Sporting Goods: Like baseball bats, drumsticks, and golf club shafts.
- Flooring: Especially in commercial or highly active residential settings due to its wear resistance.
- Furniture: Where heavy, sturdy pieces are desired, providing longevity and stability.
The weight of hickory wood is a key indicator of its superior performance and suitability for demanding applications where durability, strength, and impact resistance are paramount.
