Medium-High; the fibrous nature of the inner bark, the stringy wood texture visible at the knot, and the characteristic tan/red-brown heartwood color are consistent with the Carya genus. confidence

Hickory (Likely Shagbark or Pignut)

Carya ovata · Hardwood

Type: Hardwood
Origin: Eastern North America
Hardness: 1,820 lbf (Very Hard to Extremely Hard)
Durability: Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left in contact with ground moisture.

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Grain Pattern

Straight but coarse with occasional waviness; the sample shows a natural branch growth pattern with prominent knotting and irregular surface texture from the branch collar.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is light to medium brown with reddish hues; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. This weathered branch sample shows significant graying and tanning from UV exposure and outdoor oxidation.

Hardness (Janka)

1,820 lbf (Very Hard to Extremely Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left in contact with ground moisture.

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot for dimensional lumber; as a raw branch/walking stick blank, value is nominal ($5-$15 retail).
Wood Age Estimate: Based on the diameter and bark remnants, the branch is likely 5-8 years old; the harvested sample shows weathering suggesting it has been dead/fallen for 6-12 months.
Sustainability Status: Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed.

Common Uses

Tool handles (axes, hammers), walking sticks, ladder rungs, flooring, cabinetry, and fuel for smoking meats.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on tool edges. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it is prone to splitting when nailed without pre-drilling.