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Woods => What type of tree do you use? => Topic started by: Chris W on April 10, 2020, 12:02:44 PM

Title: How long to season hickory
Post by: Chris W on April 10, 2020, 12:02:44 PM

I have 80 acres of hardwoods and I’m cutting some hickory limbs in 1.5-2 ounce sections.   How long should I let it dry before using it in my smoker?

Title: Re: How long to season hickory
Post by: NDKoze on April 13, 2020, 04:49:51 PM

The most effective way would be to get a wood moisture meter (Amazon has them pretty cheap). You typically would be looking for wood in the 20%-30% moisture range.

Here is an example: https://smile.amazon.com/General-Tools-MMD4E-Moisture-High-Medium-Low/dp/B00275F5O2

Title: Re: How long to season hickory
Post by: old sarge on April 13, 2020, 09:18:06 PM

+1 on the meter. General is a good brand; been around for decades.

Title: Re: How long to season hickory
Post by: Pork Belly on April 18, 2020, 09:39:02 AM

As with most hings smoking related wood moisture is a personal decision. Folks will swear by} __% is ideal."

Personally I have used everything from fresh off the tree to, been under my work bench for a few years. If you have doubts, toss a chunk in and fire up the smoker. How does it look and smell? If you find it unfavorable pick something else.

It's an electric smoker, not a lot involved in getting a sample of smoke rolling. Good Luck with it.