Hemlock?

[bassbum85]

At my work we have a massive amount of scrap hemlock and I am going to use it to make swimbaits and such. I just don't know anything about the wood and was hoping some of you might have an idea. Any info would be greatlly appreciated.

Thanks,

Steven

[Vodkaman]

Here are two descriptions of the properties of the two types of hemlock:

http://www.woodbin.com/ref/wood/hemlock_eastern.htm

http://www.woodbin.com/ref/wood/hemlock_western.htm

Seems a reasonable choice of wood if handled right. Prone to splitting, solved by pre-drilling all screw holes. Prone to decay, solved by a good sealing strategy, to prevent water ingress.

Density 0.43 (water = 1.00). Here is a chart for comparing densities of popular woods.: http://www.csudh.edu/oliver/chemdata/woods.htm

Hope this information helps.

Dave

[BobP]

Eastern hemlock has a nominal density of 25 lbs/cu ft, which is a little heavier than basswood (23), eastern white pine (21., or white cedar (20). Wood density is important to crankbait performance and lighter woods are generally preferred because they make for a more lively bait. But with a density near to basswood, which is a prime crankbait wood, you should be fine if it cuts, shapes and sands OK. Never worked with hemlock, so can't comment on its working characteristics. Basswood is nice to work because it has virtually no "grain effects", a relatively uniform density, and sands to a very smooth surface. I'd make sure the wood is properly dried before using it. JMHO, any wood you use for crankbaits is going to be negligible in cost compared to the value of the finished bait. 95% of the value is the work you put into building it, so it makes sense to use only high quality components.

Edited August 10, 2010 by BobP