Cutting Hickory Backing Strips

[Dan Landis]

I have a 6" dia. hickory log that I would like to cut for backing strips, was wondering if this is possible with a log this small.  I have a 10" table saw and access to a planer.  Should it be flat sawn or quarter sawn?

[John Cooper]

I've heard that you can use flat sawn or quarter sawn hickory.  I've only used up my quartersawn backing strips so far but I'm getting to the plain sawn section of my board.  I think a 6" log would have plenty to offer, but a band saw might be easier and safer to use for resawing.

[Dan Landis]

John, thanks for the reply. I only have a 10" band saw, but, with a new blade it might handle it.  I guess the worst that can happen is I'll burn up a blade.  I was thinking of splitting it down the center, cleaning up the split edge with a draw knife, then sawing with the flat side against the table.  I believe this will give me what is called quarter sawn strips and won't be as hard on the saw. Sounds like it's time to order a new blade.

[red hill]

John, what thickness do you get with the hickory backing?  I'm almost ready to glue a backing on to a pair of spliced osage billets and was thinking of making my own hickory backing.
Stan