The Janka hardness test measures the hardness of wood. It involves measuring the force required to embed a 11.28 millimeter (0.444 inch) steel ball into wood to half its diameter. This method was chosen so that the result would leave an indention 100 square millimeters in size. It is one of the best measures of the ability of a wood species to withstand denting and wear. It is also a good indicator of how hard a species is to saw or nail.

The hardness of wood usually varies with the direction of the wood grain. If testing is done on the surface of a plank, perpendicular to the grain, the test is said to be of "side hardness." Testing the cut surface of a stump would be called a test of "end hardness."

Mesquite Trees can grow very large under the right conditions. Most people know mesquite to be very small and bush like. Ranchers consider mesquite a "trash" tree and often cut it down because it grows fast and has thorns. Mesquite roots can dive as much as 100 feet deep in search of water. The mesquite is almost impossible to kill and insects seem to have little effect on it. The wood is most famous for it use in grilling or smoking. It imparts a flavor that is impossible to get any other way. However, the wood has been discovered by craftsman. It is one of the hardest woods known and is sold also as "Texas Ironwood". It makes excellent furniture and the varied colors in the wood make for exquisite handicraft items. Mesquite Wars- Time Magazine wrote an indepth article about "Mesquite Wars" and the ranchers who fight it. Wikipedia General Information- See the description of mesquite in Wikipedia Mesquite Beans as Food- Read about the use of mesquite beans as native food. Mesquite Bio-fuels- A Texas company is using mesquite and cedar to create bio-fuels. Energy Tech- Mesquite Energy May Be Harvested For Ethanol