[Jesster-W]

I'm just starting out on my 'walking stick' journey, and am getting some mixed reviews about using balsam fir for walking sticks online. A lot of places are saying it can be difficult to work with because it's really sap-heavy.

I'd love to know what you guys think before I start collecting stock... because the forests around me are absolutely full of the stuff.

Thanks in advance,

Jesse

 

[dww2]

Full of sap and a bit too light for my liking but I suppose it could be worth a shot. A while ago I made a handle from hemlock, another softwood which I'd always considered no good for canes and it turned out great.

 

[CV3]

Balsam Fir in general is not a wood I prefer working with when making sticks. Your harder wood cure or dry faster and are stronger. I have use a lot of dried Aspen sticks they are light and stong.

 

[valky307]

I enjoy carving on Balsam wood with a whittling knife (Wharncliffe pocket knife) but I think it would break or severely damage very easily in the shape of a cane or hiking stick. Just not what the Spanish would call "Palo Duro!"