Young branches are hard to identify just by the bark. An old branch of shagbark hickory is immediately recognizable. Older branches of Bitternut, Mockernut, etc are harder to tell apart. I'm working on a bitternut hickory stick. I could only identify it because I gathered it when it had leaves.
Nevertheless, all hickory is going to be tough. It is great for tool handles and sticks because while it is very strong against shocks (think hammer blows), it is less likely to shatter than oak or ash which have a similar hardness..
Unfortunately, where I live, most of the trees were cut down more than 100 years ago for furniture making. The nuts are good to eat, and help the wild life.
Nevertheless, all hickory is going to be tough. It is great for tool handles and sticks because while it is very strong against shocks (think hammer blows), it is less likely to shatter than oak or ash which have a similar hardness..
Unfortunately, where I live, most of the trees were cut down more than 100 years ago for furniture making. The nuts are good to eat, and help the wild life.