Thanks to all for the thoughtful (and fun!) replies.
Doug, I would certainly enjoy a conversation with a real wood turner. I don’t feel I’m quite there yet!
We still have over one half mile of “hedge rows” that were planted about a century ago. Those trees are easily 40’ tall now so it would be no problem to get you some Osage turning stock.
Yes Reed and Randy those hedge posts are durable! I can show you hedge posts that Dad tamped in about 70 years ago that still hold a gate straight!
And Leo, I absolutely agree with you! I have been “playing” on the lathe for about five years now, mostly on an old inadequate Powercraft lathe that I had modified with riser blocks and reeves drive. Just got a Jet 1642 this year (I love it!) and have yet to find a club. I’ve made a few dozen bowls, platters, boxes etc. Bottom line……I need some time and practice to reduce the chance that I would just convert these relatively rare pieces of wood into garden mulch!
And yes,I have gotten the message that many if not ALL of you would be more than happy to keep me from committing that sin!
Rick, I have turned some very dry, very hard Osage and with a really sharp tool the sound of the cut is just a hiss! It’s wonderful!