what wood is this?

[Mr_Mike]

For reference, the table it is sitting on is California Formica.

I was told its ironwood. Based on its heft, I'd agree. Darned heavy stuff.

[SteveS]

olneya tesota to be specific

[Mr_Mike]

Thank you.

A friend of mine gave it to another friend. Though it would be good for turning. The receiver, however, is a neophyte to the lathe, so I've suggested she start with something she can actually cut.

[SteveS]

like African blackwood, it is beautiful stuff to turn. no need to worry about tearout.

[kludge]

SteveS said:

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like African blackwood, it is beautiful stuff to turn. no need to worry about tearout.

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Agreed. Sanding sucks though!

[Mr_Mike]

Thanks all.

Follow up: The gifter of the wood's father picked it up when he lived in Arizona. Makes sense. Its been laying around this fellow's house for 30 years. Wish he'd have given it to me.

[AHill]

Desert Ironwood. More common to Arizona and not California. Hard as a rock and hard on tools, but it does machine nicely. Sinks in water. Absolutely gorgeous grain, similar to cocobolo. I make pens with it. It's also popular for knife scales. (Pic is a Bark River Aurora knife.)

SteveS said:

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olneya tesota to be specific

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[Arlin Eastman]

O boy that is some nice stuff no matter what kind of wood. I do not know how big it is but it would make several nice turned projects.

Arlin

[Ron Brese]

Looks like Desert Ironwood. 1.20 specific gravity. Dense stuff with a weird texture and a really funky smell when worked.

Ron