Patches,
Ash is what they used to, and I am pretty sure they still do
make some baseball bats from. In a fire it burns hotter than oak
because of it's density.
That being said I have carved Dade County pine where the saw
blade would create sparks. lol
I guess it depends on your ability and how sharp your tools are.
Good luck. I have a basement full of it.
Let us know how you fair.
Zuma