Ash, being a straight grained wood, is probably the easiest hardwood there is to split. That is why it is so in demand by people in the business of supplying cut logs/firewood to the public.
Besides burning exceedingly well, it also has amazing shock absorbing qualities which is why it is used for certain tool handles and also even car chassis.
Every year I go out into a nearby (mainly) Ash wood with the chainsaw to cut up wind-blown or hung-up Ash and other trees for a disabled friend of mine and believe me, I prefer Ash to any other wood.
As Meta menardi says Jim, you must be confusing this tree with something else.
Neil.
