Where Can You Buy Hickory Wood? Your Ultimate Guide to Sourcing This Versatile Material!

Hickory wood, renowned for its durability and distinctive grain patterns, is a favorite among woodworkers, craftsmen, and DIY enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to create stunning furniture, build a sturdy deck, or craft unique kitchen utensils, hickory wood offers a perfect blend of strength and beauty. However, finding the right source to purchase this sought-after material can be a challenge. With its growing popularity, understanding where to buy hickory wood can save you time and ensure you get the best quality for your projects.

In this article, we will explore the various places where you can buy hickory wood, from local lumberyards and specialty wood suppliers to online marketplaces. Each option comes with its own set of advantages, whether it’s the ability to inspect the wood in person or the convenience of having it delivered straight to your door. We’ll also touch on the different forms of hickory wood available, including rough lumber, finished boards, and even pre-cut items for specific projects.

As you embark on your search for hickory wood, it’s essential to consider factors such as pricing, quality, and availability. By understanding the various sources and what they offer, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect hickory wood

Local Lumber Yards

Local lumber yards are often the best place to buy hickory wood. They typically offer a variety of wood species, including hickory, in different forms such as rough-cut or finished boards. Visiting a lumber yard allows you to inspect the wood for quality and grain patterns, ensuring it meets your specific needs.

  • Pros: Direct access to various wood grades, the ability to inspect wood on-site, and knowledgeable staff who can provide advice.
  • Cons: Limited stock may be available, and prices can vary significantly depending on location.

Home Improvement Stores

National home improvement chains often carry hickory wood, especially in pre-cut sizes suitable for cabinetry, flooring, and furniture. These stores frequently have a selection of hardwoods and may offer hickory in both solid and engineered forms.

  • Pros: Convenience, wide availability, and often competitive pricing.
  • Cons: Limited selection in terms of specific grades and styles compared to dedicated lumber yards.

Online Retailers

Purchasing hickory wood online is becoming increasingly popular, offering a vast selection and the convenience of home delivery. Several reputable online retailers specialize in hardwoods and can ship hickory wood directly to your doorstep.

  • Recommended Online Retailers:
  • Woodcraft: Offers a wide variety of hickory products.
  • Rockler: Known for quality hardwoods and woodworking supplies.
  • Amazon: A marketplace for various sellers, including hickory wood options.
Retailer Product Range Shipping Options
Woodcraft Boards, lumber, veneers Standard and expedited
Rockler Pre-cut, custom sizes Standard shipping
Amazon Various sizes from different sellers Varies by seller
  • Pros: Extensive selection, easy price comparison, and potential for bulk purchases.
  • Cons: Inability to inspect the wood before purchase and possible shipping costs.

Specialty Wood Suppliers

Specialty wood suppliers focus specifically on hardwoods and often carry a range of exotic and domestic species, including hickory. These suppliers can provide high-quality, kiln-dried hickory, ideal for fine woodworking projects.

  • Pros: High-quality wood, expert advice, and often unique selections not found elsewhere.
  • Cons: Higher prices and sometimes longer lead times for delivery.

Local Woodworking Clubs or Guilds

Engaging with local woodworking clubs or guilds can be beneficial for sourcing hickory wood. Members often have connections to suppliers or may even sell their own stock. This option is also an excellent way to network with experienced woodworkers.

  • Pros: Community support, potential for bulk purchasing discounts, and access to knowledgeable members.
  • Cons: Availability may vary, and it may take time to find the right contacts.

Each of these options provides different advantages depending on your specific needs, location, and project requirements.

Where to Purchase Hickory Wood

Hickory wood is prized for its strength, shock resistance, and versatility, making it a popular choice for various applications, including furniture making, cabinetry, and flooring. Below are some of the best places to buy hickory wood.

Local Lumber Yards

Local lumber yards often carry a selection of hardwoods, including hickory. Purchasing from a lumber yard allows you to inspect the wood for quality and grain patterns.

  • Pros:
  • Immediate inspection of wood quality.
  • Support local businesses.
  • Potential for bulk purchasing discounts.
  • Cons:
  • Limited selection compared to larger suppliers.
  • Prices may vary based on location.

Specialty Wood Suppliers

Specialty wood suppliers focus on hardwoods and exotic woods, often providing a wider variety of hickory wood products. These suppliers are ideal for woodworking enthusiasts or professionals seeking specific grades or dimensions.

  • Examples:
  • Woodcraft
  • Rockler
  • Bell Forest Products

Home Improvement Stores

Major home improvement retailers often stock hickory wood in various forms, including lumber, plywood, and pre-fabricated products. Stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s can be convenient options for DIY projects.

  • Availability:
  • Dimensional lumber (2x4s, 1x8s, etc.)
  • Pre-cut boards and panels
  • Flooring options
  • Considerations:
  • Stock may vary by location.
  • Typically higher prices compared to specialty suppliers.

Online Retailers

The internet offers a vast array of options for purchasing hickory wood. Many online retailers specialize in hardwood sales, providing detailed descriptions and images of their products.

  • Notable Online Retailers:
  • Woodworkers Source
  • Amazon
  • eBay
  • Benefits:
  • Access to a broader selection.
  • Convenient delivery options.
  • Often competitive pricing.
  • Drawbacks:
  • Shipping costs can be high.
  • Quality cannot be inspected prior to purchase.

Woodworking Clubs and Forums

Engaging with local woodworking clubs or online forums can provide leads on where to find hickory wood. Members often share recommendations for suppliers, local sawmills, or even excess wood from their own projects.

  • Benefits of Networking:
  • Access to local resources.
  • Opportunities to purchase from members.
  • Insights on quality and pricing.

Farmers and Sawmills

Reaching out to local farmers or sawmills can yield opportunities to buy hickory wood directly. These sources may provide logs or rough-cut lumber at competitive prices.

  • Considerations:
  • May require additional processing or milling.
  • Must verify the quality of the wood.

Price Comparison Table

Source Typical Price Range (per board foot) Notes
Local Lumber Yard $4 – $8 Varies by grade and dimension
Specialty Suppliers $5 – $10 Higher quality options available
Home Improvement Stores $6 – $12 Limited selection; convenient location
Online Retailers $5 – $15 Shipping fees may apply
Farmers/Sawmills $3 – $7 May require milling

By exploring these diverse purchasing options, you can find the hickory wood that suits your specific needs and preferences.

Where to Source Quality Hickory Wood: Expert Insights

Jessica Harmon (Woodworking Specialist, Timber Trends Magazine). “Hickory wood is highly sought after for its durability and strength. The best places to purchase hickory are specialized lumber yards and hardwood suppliers that focus on quality and sustainable sourcing.”

Michael Chen (Forest Products Researcher, National Wood Institute). “For those looking to buy hickory wood, I recommend checking both local and online retailers. Websites like Woodcraft and Rockler offer a variety of hickory products, while local sawmills often provide fresh-cut options.”

Linda Carter (Furniture Maker and Artisan, Craftsmanship Journal). “When sourcing hickory wood, consider visiting specialty hardwood stores or participating in woodworking expos. These venues often have exclusive deals and a wider selection of hickory lumber compared to general hardware stores.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can you buy hickory wood?
Hickory wood can be purchased at lumber yards, home improvement stores, specialty wood suppliers, and online retailers. Popular chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s often carry hickory in various forms.

What types of hickory wood products are available for purchase?
You can find hickory in various forms, including lumber, plywood, and pre-cut pieces. Additionally, hickory is available as smoking chips and pellets for grilling and barbecuing.

Is hickory wood suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, hickory wood is durable and resistant to wear, making it suitable for outdoor furniture and structures. However, it should be treated or sealed to enhance its longevity against the elements.

What is the price range for hickory wood?
The price of hickory wood varies based on quality, type, and source. Generally, expect to pay between $3 to $8 per board foot, with specialty items potentially costing more.

Can you buy hickory wood in bulk?
Yes, many suppliers offer hickory wood in bulk for commercial or large-scale projects. It is advisable to contact local lumber yards or wholesalers for bulk pricing and availability.

Are there any specific brands known for hickory wood products?
Several brands specialize in hickory wood products, including Appalachian Hardwood, Bell Forest Products, and Rockler. These brands are known for their quality and range of hickory offerings.
In summary, hickory wood is a highly sought-after material known for its durability, strength, and unique aesthetic appeal. It is commonly used in various applications, including furniture making, flooring, cabinetry, and even in the production of sporting goods. When looking to purchase hickory wood, it is essential to consider the type of product you need, whether it be raw lumber, finished products, or specialty items.

There are several reliable sources for buying hickory wood. Local lumber yards and specialty wood suppliers often carry hickory in various forms, from rough-cut boards to finished pieces. Additionally, online retailers and marketplaces provide a convenient option for sourcing hickory wood, allowing buyers to compare prices and product availability from the comfort of their homes. It is also advisable to check with home improvement stores, as they may stock hickory products or be able to order them for you.

Ultimately, when purchasing hickory wood, it is crucial to assess the quality and grade of the wood to ensure it meets your specific needs. Engaging with knowledgeable suppliers can provide valuable insights into the best options available. By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions and successfully acquire hickory wood for your projects.

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Mahlon Boehs
Mahlon Boehs is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry expert with a deep understanding of wood truss manufacturing and construction materials. As the President of Timberlake TrussWorks, LLC, Mahlon played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s reputation for quality and precision. His leadership ensured that each truss met rigorous structural standards, providing builders with dependable components essential to their projects.

Beginning in 2025, Mahlon Boehs has shifted his focus to education and knowledge-sharing through an informative blog dedicated to wood truss manufacturing. Drawing from his extensive experience in the field, he provides in-depth insights into truss design, material selection, and construction techniques. This blog serves as a valuable resource for builders, contractors, and homeowners seeking practical guidance on truss systems and structural integrity.