White Ash
White ash is one of the toughest domestic hardwoods — the shock resistance that made it the standard for baseball bats and axe handles is real and measurable. It works easily, steam-bends beautifully, and has an open grain that takes stain well. The elephant in the room: Emerald Ash Borer has wiped out billions of trees, and availability is tightening. Buy it now or source it from urban salvage programs.
- Overlooking the Emerald Ash Borer situation — prices will rise and availability will fall; if you have a source of quality ash, stock it
- Filling the open grain before finishing if you want a smooth surface — ash's coarse pores are prominent; grain filler is essential for a glass-smooth topcoat
- Confusing white ash and green ash at the lumber yard — they're often sold interchangeably and are nearly identical in working properties; don't pay a premium for one over the other
Beige to light brown heartwood, sometimes with an olive tint. Similar appearance to oak but with a less pronounced ray pattern. Sapwood is wide and pale, often used alongside heartwood without much visual disruption.
Excellent shock resistance makes ash the go-to for tool handles, sporting equipment, and anything that takes impact. Works well with hand and machine tools. Steam-bends extremely well. Important conservation note: Emerald Ash Borer (an invasive beetle) has decimated wild ash populations across North America; increasingly sourced from managed/reclaimed stock.
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Regional / select dealers |
| Europe | Regional / select dealers |
| Australia / NZ | Specialty importers only |
| Southeast Asia | Specialty importers only |
| South America | Specialty importers only |
| Africa / Middle East | Specialty importers only |