I was curious if anyone on the forum happened to have some logs or billets of mountain mahogany they could sell. I really just need enough for a a keyed Bb flute, and C flute. It appears Cook’s isn’t selling larger pieces as of recent and figured maybe some folks on here have connections.
Years ago my wood supplier had logs but these are long gone. The Cook woods people or someone close to them were the ones who used to cut it I think. They were getting on in years and cutting this stuff is hard work and it eats chainsaws. The trees are found at higher elevations and are cut for firewood occasionally as it burns like coal. The BLM used to fire off the trees in order to inspire a growth of sprouts for deer and elk browse. I’ve wanted to head down there and get my own but these days I lack the strength and endurance and am a novice on a chain saw and value having all my fingers and toes!
This wood takes forever to cure. I’ve never tried microwaving it though and that could accelerate things - although it could also add stresses to the wood. With the few pieces I have on hand (which I am not letting go of anytime soon - they are already committed to a project for myself) I am hesitant to try any of those methods.
I’ve sent out some inquiries and will report back if I find any sources besides Cook Woods. Other than what Cook is selling, its one that doesn’t lend itself to commercial availability. You might want to contact the American Association of Woodturners groups in the NW over to Idaho and Utah to see if anyone there has some they could spare.
Casey