Seasoned vs. Kiln-Dried Hickory Firewood

Hickory firewood is renowned for its hardiness and rich, smoky flavor. But not all hickory is created equal—the difference lies in how it's dried.

The Seasoned Hickory Problem

Leaving hickory firewood logs outside to air-dry for 12+ months (the process of seasoning) does not prevent rot from setting in—resulting in mold growth, fungi colonies, or even pest infestations. Even after years of seasoning, moisture levels can remain inconsistent.

The Kiln-Dried Hickory Advantage

Axe & Kindle kiln-dries all of its hickory firewood using a super-sized kiln and fan to heat and dry the logs all at once. The controlled environment makes it possible to get the wood below 20% moisture every time—in a matter of days instead of multiple years.

• Easier lighting – Low moisture means faster ignition
• Longer burn time – More heat energy per log
• Less smoke – Cleaner combustion with hickory's signature aroma
• No mold or pests – Safe for indoor storage

Choose kiln-dried hickory firewood from Axe & Kindle for a fire that lights easier, burns longer and brighter, and delivers that authentic smoky flavor every time.

Characteristics of Hickory Firewood

Hickory firewood is renowned as one of the finest burning hardwoods available, prized by fire enthusiasts and pitmasters alike for its exceptional heat output and distinctive characteristics.

Appearance & Structure

Hickory wood is heavy, dense and straight-grained with a medium-brown, reddish hue highlighted with yellow or gold. The rough bark on hickory trees give it a shaggy appearance.

Superior Burning Performance

Hickory outperforms nearly all other types of firewood with exceptional heat output, burning at 28.5 million BTUs per stack. Easy to light and produces fires that are hot, long-lasting, and remarkably clean.

• Exceptional heat output – Burns at 28.5 million BTUs per stack
• Bright, captivating flame – Illuminates any room with warmth and elegance
• Low smoke output – Kiln-dried to under 20% moisture content
• Long-lasting coals – Great "overnighter" fuel, burns hot through the night
• Savory, sweet aroma – Preferred for cooking and flavoring meats
• No mold or insects – Kiln-dried for safe indoor storage

Choose kiln-dried hickory firewood from Axe & Kindle for a premium burning experience with exceptional heat, minimal emissions, and the classic aroma that liquid smoke flavoring is modeled after.

Varieties of Hickory Species

Hickory is a heavy, straight-grained dense hardwood type making it an excellent choice for firewood.

There are about 18 types of hickory wood, including some of these more popular hickory tree varieties:

• Mockernut
• Shellbark
• Bitternut
• Pignut
• Shagbark

Shagbark hickory is the best choice when it comes to heating your home - more BTU per stack than any other variation. It's also the most commonly found and available hickory tree type.

Hickory trees are a great source of warmth and light, thanks to the superior firewood they provide.