Timber Framers Guild Forums General General Forum Questions Hand Tools on Douglas Fir

I'm just about to start my first timber-frame project - a small 12x16 cabin. I had been planning on using Douglas Fir since I'm right in the middle of where it all grows. HOwever, I am concerned that it will be too tough to work with hand tools - Millers Falls, Barr Chisels, hand saws, etc. Since I've never worked in Doug Fir before, does anybody have advice? Should I be concerned that these timbers will be too difficult to cut using hand tools? Thanks! Any advice would be good - including alternative species choice. Dave

Basic approach. A properly sharp tool in well practiced hands will cut anything. Wet fir is just another pine like when it comes to cutting.

I am coming down to the wire on my timber frame project right now -- I have been working Doug Fir out here on the Olympic Peninsula. Fir is not hard to work with hand tools, especially compared to other woods that you might have chosen, like Maple and Oak. Still, you should heed the advice that a sharp edge will always help, regardless of the kind of wood.

Thanks for the advice - sounds like sharp tools (as always) is the key. That is something I can handle. I'm going to stick with Doug Fir.

Would love to see pics of the place on the Olympic Peninsula! I'm in Seattle. You did it solo? Dave (DaveMedd@Hotmail.com)