The Janka (or side) hardness test measures the force required to embed a .444 inch steel ball to half its diameter in wood. This is one of the best measures of the ability of wood species to withstand denting and wear. It is also a good indicator of how hard a species is to saw or nail. The following are Janka scale measurements of some common wood species. Species higher on the list are the most dent resistent. The dent resistance of a wood specie is an important factor to analize but is really just one of many elements for consideration. We carry the species in bold. Please contact us with questions you have.