Log question

[Tom Henry]

OK...I am new to this so be gentle...

I moved in my house about 5 years ago and there was a tree that was taken down and I tossed a few of the larger pieces in the woods behind my house...would that still be good to turn or do I have to split it open to see how bad it is...I think it was oak or maple...

[Michael Faurot]

As long as the stuff isn't rotten, it should still be good for something.

[Tom Henry]

I guess I just need to take an axe to it and see what surprise is in there huh???

[Kirk Miller]

To I would give it a shot. You may find that there is some amazing wood there. I just put a small piece of birch on my lathe that has been down for over 2 years. It has some incredible spalting. I have it round, now I just have to decide what to make with it.

[Richard Madison]

Tom,
A few years ago I cut down an oak that had been standing dead for more than a year. Cut some turning blanks and found that it was still wet inside, as in "wear the big faceshield" wet. If the log(s) are long enough that end checking has not penetrated too deep you may have some good turning wood. Worth a try.