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