Walnut is probably the most valuable hardwood in the United States. Walnut has become recognized worldwide as one of the finest American hardwoods. It is a beautiful wood that has long been sought after for furniture, cabinetry, and gunstocks. The wood works very nicely and polishes extremely well. Also, Walnut ages to a uniquely beautiful golden brown color over time. Walnut is easily worked with both hand and machine tools. It accepts nails, screws, and glue readily. Additionally, the lumber holds both wood and metal fasteners extremely well. Walnut is perfectly suited to most finishing methods. One other tremendous quality that Walnut enjoys is its decay resistance. This fact is not well known and is seldom even mentioned for walnut. The crotches in walnut are also especially valued. They are highly prized for gunstocks and are truly beautiful.