pipemakersforum.com

Hey guys,

A neighbor gave me a nice little silver beech burl in exchange for a pipe I made him, and I was wondering if a pipe could be made from it. It's extremely hard and dense, any thoughts or previous experience working with it?

If not for a pipe it will be used in shank extensions and what not.

I have no experience with beech pipes, but I do know it's a great wood for making planes because of its hardness and density. It will probably work, assuming it doesn't burn easily.

The following two sites have some more info that you might find useful:

Physical Properties of Common Woods

Wood Allergies and Toxicity