When getting into a new hickory log, is it better to split it apart to save the grain or can it cut it down in quaters to get the blanks?? Any info would be appreciated.
I’ve had good success using 2 wedges and a 8# sledge hammer. Look carefully at the growth pattern on the bark and at the growth rings on each end to determine the best place to start. I usually start at one end and work toward the other end, leap frogging the wedges as I go. I start the first wedge right on the end at an angle. When it is halfway in I start the other one in the crack created by the first one. This relases the first one and so on. Helps if you have someone to help you but I’ve done it alone too. Good luck and don’t forget to remove the bark as soon as possible to keep the bugs out. Also storing your staves inside will keep the bugs out too.
