Grain orientation, deadeyes?

[kbowen]

What was the common grain orientation for wooden deadeyes? I can imagine an argument for them oriented as a disk cut from a limb, because the steel band should resist splitting, I can also invent arguments for vertical and fore-aft grain. I have some small chunks of Lignum Vitae I am thinking of using. I have been using large galvanized shackles on the bottom, and oversize galvanized eyes in the shroud, but the spectra lanyard doubling over itself jambs up both in setting and easing tension.
Thoughts?

Ken

[J.Madison]

Re: Grain orientation, deadeyes?

I would run the grain vertical, like it did when the tree was standing. Wood in compression is several times stronger with the grain than across it.

[JimConlin]

Re: Grain orientation, deadeyes?

A google search for images of deadeyes is informative.
The majority appear to have vertical grain, a few are horizontal, parallel to the iron shackle’s pin and none with grain through the shackle.

[Andrew Craig-Bennett]

Re: Grain orientation, deadeyes?

Another vote for “vertical”. Be sure to cut the holes correctly and to include a leather washer under the Matthew Walker.