Let's Talk Timber!

Choosing the Right Timber for Handcrafted Fishing Lures.

When it comes to making fishing lures, the type of wood you select plays a crucial role in the lure's performance and durability. Here's a straightforward look at some popular Australian timbers and why we at Strike Force Lures prefer hoop pine for our lathe-turned lures.

Popular Australian Timbers for Lure Making

• Australian Red Cedar: This lightweight and moderately soft wood is easy to carve, making it a favourite among those who handcraft their lures. However, it requires proper sealing to enhance its durability.

• White Beech: Known for its medium density and fine texture, white beech offers good stability. It's suitable for various lure types, balancing ease of carving with strength.

• Silky Oak: With its medium weight and distinctive grain pattern, silky oak is appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and satisfactory performance in water.

  
  

Why We Use Hoop Pine

At Strike Force Lures, we use hoop pine for our lathe-turned lures. This timber strikes a balance between density, workability, availability and cost. It allows us to create precise and consistent shapes on the lathe. Its uniform grain reduces the risk of imperfections during turning, resulting in a smoother finish. However, hoop pine's characteristics make it more suitable for lathe turning rather than hand carving. For hand-carved lures, woods like Australian red cedar or white beech might be more appropriate due to their carving-friendly properties.

Safety Considerations

Working with wood generates dust, which can pose health risks. Some timbers, such as western red cedar, are known to cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues due to their specific dust properties. It's essential to implement proper dust control measures, like using local exhaust ventilation and wearing appropriate respiratory protection, to ensure a safe working environment.

Cost and Availability

The cost and availability of timber can vary based on species and sourcing. Locally sourced woods may offer cost advantages and support sustainable practices. It's advisable to choose species that are readily available and sustainably harvested to ensure consistent supply and environmental responsibility.

Conclusion

Selecting the right timber for your fishing lures depends on various factors, including the method of crafting and the desired characteristics of the lure. While hoop pine is our choice for lathe-turned lures due to its suitability for turning, other timbers like Australian red cedar and white beech are excellent for hand-carved lures. Always consider the workability, durability, and safety aspects of the timber to create effective and long-lasting fishing lures.