Doug Fir?

[Dave Bagwill]

This supplier, just over the hill in Klamath Falls, has been touting the Douglas Fir for some time. I'm trying to work it out so that after I run my tests, I can return anything that is not up to snuff. I know tests are not infallible, but there are some broad areas of agreement that allow us to make some intelligent choices right up front in the process.
Here's the link. Has anyone used Doug Fir for a soundboard??

http://www.oregonwildwood.com/product/d ... 07057.html

[Dave Bagwill]

Here's the email and his response. Sounds like a straight-up guy; I think I will drive over and pick out some tops and bring them home for testing.

Hello Dana - I'm over here in Medford and I need to get over to see you
> one of these days.
>
> I test all of the top wood I purchase, and though no tests are full
> proof - and no builder, that's for sure :-) - I won't use wood that does
> not score very well on the tests - which can get expensive if there is no
> return policy.
>
> So I'd just like to make certain that the return option is available. I
> pay shipping, of course, or would return the stuff - if there is any - in
> person.
>
> Does this make sense to you? Can we go ahead on that basis? I'm looking at
> the straight grain Doug Fir to start with.

Hi Dave,

Not a problem. The Douglas fir is very stiff, well sawn and rings like
crystal. I think you will be very pleased.

Best regards,

Dana
-
Subject: testing


> Dave Bagwill
> Medford, Oregon

[Kevin in California]

sounds promising, but I wonder why we have not seen Doug Fir used in production guitars over the years?

Kevin

[Dave Bagwill]

My question exactly. I'm hoping someone who has used it will chime in. Then again, the testing procedures will tell the story, up to a point.

[TonyinNYC]

I have wondered about it as well. I don't know of anyone who has used it but I am looking forward to your tests.

[Dave Bagwill]

There won't be any stinkin' tests.
Why? Because the shipping, for one top that cost $50, is $15.00.

That's for a two hour trip, there to here.

Can't make a living paying that unconscionable (sorry Tim - I mean 'too big' :-)) amount. Not gonna pay it , would not be prudent at this or any other juncture.

[ken cierp]

Douglas Fir is the “weed” of the conifers – grows very fast, can get very large. The grain for the most part is spaced wide versus what we have become accustom to seeing/expecting relative to high appearance grade material. I have had some in the shop, while the tap tone was bright I did not care for the orangey color, I did not use it since to me, it was more brittle then even Redwood and after sitting in the shop for a year or so I could feel tacky sap or resin on the surface – for me not worth the effort to even experiment. It is however great for floor joists and other construction applications. $.02