Myrtlewood

[oregondon]

I wanted to turn a couple of lamps from Myrtlewood but I am finding this stuff extremely hard (no pun intended) to cut and drill.

I tried to drill an hole through the middle of a 4x4 piece for the lamp cord rod with a 12" drill but only made it about 8" before it bound up. And yes, I was clearing the chips out as I went.

I am beginning to think that the only way to deal with Myrtlewood is with carbine tools.

Anyone have any experience using this wood? Sure is pretty.

[dgale]

Around these parts it's called California Bay Laurel or occasionally I've heard it called Pepperwood - it's a beautiful wood and I know it's very popular for carving and other assorted woodworking, especially in Southern Oregon ("Myrtlewood" Country ;-) ), where you see lots of roadside places selling Myrtlewood goods. I've cut it up more than anything for firewood in the past and haven't working with it that much but when I have I don't recall any particular issues…I never have tried to drill it. What diameter bit were you using?

[terrydowning]

Myrtle. Good stuff, I wish it was more available here

Janka Hardness of 1,270 which compares to Red oak
Red Oak, Domestic 1260-1290

According to the second reference below it will blunt tools. I do recommend a a drill bit sharpening device (or learn to do it by hand) and of course go slow and clear often. You may have to stop and wait for a bit to control heat down the hole.

Janka Reference

Myrtle/California Laurel References

http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/myrtle/

http://www.connectedlines.com/wood/wood44.htm