aka ironwood..it's as good as it gets, has same btu rating as anthracite coal in some publications. I hoard as much as I can for those colder months. A naturally drier wood it seasons quickly.
Only problem with the darn stuff, it's 6 inch diameter and 30 feet high, takes a lot for a cord. I have one in my bush that's around 18inch DBH by my guessing and 50 feet ? tall.
I've always wanted to cut it, but I don't have it in me.
Ruffed grouse can be seen in them all the time eating buds after the leaves are gone and a dusting of snow.Logging types have told me they are prevalent in hardwood bushes that have been pastured by cows,the leaves are to bitter and cows will eat every leaf but those and that's why they get a start.