Author Topic: Twisted elderberry question  (Read 1201 times)

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Offline stuckinthemud

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Twisted elderberry question
« on: April 17, 2021, 12:23:15 pm »
I cut some sambucus nigra, very excited, but when I split it, it split into the worst heli spiral I ever have had, something like 190 degrees over 58 inches. My first instinct is its firewood.  Anyone know how well elderberry straightens?

Offline Pat B

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Re: Twisted elderberry question
« Reply #1 on: April 17, 2021, 12:29:40 pm »
I've never worked elderberry but that seems like too much twist in such a short stave. You could always give it a try.
Make the most of all that comes and the least of all that goes!    Pat Brennan  Brevard, NC

Offline elijahjmhutchinson

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Re: Twisted elderberry question
« Reply #2 on: April 17, 2021, 04:04:11 pm »
Bummer. That's definitely something that's super common with Elderberry. I usually use a bandsaw to rip straight down the middle or make judicious use of splitting wedges. I know this isn't particularly helpful. I'm just commiserating with you.  )P(
Elijah JM Hutchinson

bownarra

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Re: Twisted elderberry question
« Reply #3 on: April 19, 2021, 03:04:31 am »
It is almost always twisted....that and the groups of pin knots are what you need to avoid.
Often its best to get billets and splice them.
It won't straighten very well either.....
Probably firewood.