What is “janka hardness, and why is it relevant?
A. The Janka test measures the force required to embed a 11.28 millimeter (.444 inch) steel ball into wood to half its diameter. It is one of the best measures of the ability of a wood species to withstand denting and wear. It is also a good indicator of how hard a species is to saw or nail. The hardness of wood usually varies with the direction of the wood grain. If testing is done on the surface of a plank, the test is said to be of “side hardness.” Testing the cut surface of a stump would be called a test of “end hardness.” Douglas Fir, a relatively soft wood, has a Janka hardness rating of 660 (using pound-force). Brazilian cherry, a very hard wood, has a rating of 2350 (also using pound-force) [Source – Wikipedia]. This is relevant to you as a player, in much the same way that the thickness of a normal pick is. Different hardnesses can affect the tone and durability of your Pixotica picks.
