I'm just guessing here, but the slammer I have looks like it was made out of the (medium grained)hardwood dowel that's sold at Home Depot. When I make a bait on a lathe I like to use a densely grained hardwood because it turns nicer. Unfortunately the densely grained hardwoods are also more expensive. Maple or Cherry are my faves for turning. Hope this helps. Tight lines, Wade