Milling Iron wood

[Dave Bartley]

I was given a pickup load of Iron wood. Total weight of 2100 lbs. All of it is 8/4 stock, some as wide as 8 1/4 ". Yes there is just a "bit" of a gloat here.

I have heard all kinds of horror stories on blades being wiped out trying to mill this wood. Any suggestions on milling this would be most helpful.

Thanks in advance.

[Mark Singer]

I have worked with Pau Lope and Ipe , Iron wood is usually the same species. You must take shallow bites on the CMS . Ripping is about the same as any hardwood on the tablesaw. I would get a sharp carbide blade....but don't use your best rip blade...it will dull. On the planer and jointer very shallow bites.Where eye protection!

[Jim Becker]

There are probably about 100 different species that are called "iron wood" around the world, but what Mark says about milling is right on. Sharp carbide cutters and patience will give you great results.