Sugar Maple (or American Hickory)
Acer saccharum (or Carya ovata) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a uniform, fine texture characteristic of turned utility handles or drumsticks.
Color & Appearance
Light creamy white to pale yellowish-brown with very little variation between sapwood and heartwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern commercial product, estimated at 1 to 10 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Drumsticks, tool handles, flooring, cabinetry, and workbench tops.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and finishes well; clear lacquer or light oil is commonly used to maintain the natural light appearance.
Notable Features
High shock resistance, strength, and stiffness making it ideal for impact applications like drumsticks.
