Maple wood

Unknown

I just got back from our cabin where I had to cut up a maple tree that fell across our driveway. Can that be used for smoking? If so, should it be soaked, or can I use it as is?[p]

Char-Woody

MinnMac, Maple is a nut wood, just like Walnut, oak, hickory, etc. Its wonderful smoking wood but I would let it cure for 6 month to dry out in a tight dry area like a overhead garage or out door storage building attic. Be sure you have clean termite and carpenter ant free wood. [p]Also use a sharp hand wood trimming saw to cut up your branches. Avoid using a oil drenched chain saw. You get putrid tasting wood from the soaked in oils.[p]I use 2 inch diameter stuff and trim off the bark after it dries. (any wood) Bark on, bark off, users choice.
Others will probably add insights as well..[p]Sugar maple is best, but others are fine. My neighbor just knocked down a big silver maple. I missed getting samples.[p]C~W[p]