"Doug Miller" wrote in message
.com...
SNIP .......
Unfortunately for the recipient of said free wood, red oak is particularly
ill-suited for use in any outdoor application. I believe you've already
learned about its porosity. :-) It will soak up water even more readily
than
it soaks up oil; this makes it much more likely than ash to warp, split,
rot,
or all three.

[1] The principal exceptions are hammer, axe, and hatchet handles, which
are
nearly always made from hickory due to its extremely high shock
resistance.
======================
Doug,
Baseball bats are usually made from ash, but my dad turned me one from
hickory when I was in grade school. Great bat! Had a lot more weight out at
the end. After learning to use it, it was the favorite of several of the
neighbors kids.

Ken Moon
Webberville, TX