Did a google search (shoulda done that first), and learned a thing or two, mostly about the grit content and hardness of the wood dulling the tools. I've got a grinder next to the lathe, so that's covered, so I guess I'm worried mostly about the blank exploding on me, due to it's hardness. It's dry wood I've had lying under the bench for a couple of years here in AZ. Should I turn these handles from green mesquite? Tom Work at your leisure!
It's not quite THAT hard, Tom. It's not going to "explode on you" due to hardness while turning it any more than any other kind of wood. Are these chisel handles going to be pounded on or just used by hand? I can't personally attest to the durability of mesquite in an environment where it's going to be hit with a mallet or hammer although it has a high rating in flooring for durability. I do know that it's very very stable when compared to it's green vs dry state. So, whether you turn it green or dry, you'll not notice much if any difference in the end product as far as movement, shrinking, cracking, etc.
I'd say just use what you have.
- Andrew
I live in a dominant mesquite environment. It is by far my favorite wood to turn. It is stable green or dry. Beware of checks or "cracks" and "splits" near the center. I almost always assume the center is "rotten" or "splinterish". You can find yourself using a lot of super glue. I have pieces with worms still living in them after a year or so. It finishes great, I normally use Bri wax, friction polish, or an oil/varnish mix. On my tool handles, I frequently just use a light oil. End grain can be tough and cross grain shows a lot of figure. Enjoy turning it , just wipe the worm juice off the shield every now and then as needed!
For what it's worth!
There are so many here for whom Mesquite is commonplace but I thought that I might add my bit.
Bill Brachhold sent me some Mesquite and I wish it were readily available in the UK because it really comes up beautifully with Danish oil and when dry, pure beeswax. It was some time ago but I do remember sneezing rather a lot after I removed my visor to go indoors!
Regards, Peter Charles Fagg Freshwater, Isle of Wight, United Kingdom.
Peter wrote:>Bill Brachhold sent me some Mesquite and I wish it were readily
Now that you mention it, I _was_ sneezing a bit last night... Tom Work at your leisure!
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