Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with subtle cathedral patterns and slight figure visible in the transition zones
Color Description
Creamy white to yellowish sapwood contrasting sharply with chocolate brown to dark coffee heartwood. The heartwood will often lighten slightly and the sapwood will darken over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack (especially beetles)
Common Uses
Gunstocks, furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (varies by grade and figure level)
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (less than 20 years). The clear transition and lack of significant graying Suggests a relatively recent cut that has been finished or sanded.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues easily, and takes stains and finishes excellently. Prone to minor tearout with irregular grain, but generally very cooperative.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, earthy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be an allergen; highly prized for dimensional stability and strength-to-weight ratio in gunstocks.
Finish Recommendations
Tung oil or Linseed oil to enhance natural color; Polyurethane or Lacquer for durability on items like gunstocks or furniture.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic sharp contrast between the pale sapwood and dark chocolate heartwood, combined with the diffuse-porous grain structure and specific application (gunstock), is diagnostic for Juglans nigra.