Greetings Jim:
Thanks for the question and thanks for the idea that I should assemble a quick and dirty publication describing common Wood Product Logging Terms!
Bolt - any short-length log; usually less than 8-ft in length.
Tie log: logs that meet the minimum criteria for crossties, switch ties, or bridge ties; generally lower quality logs, yet all tie logs must be sound.
Pallet log: low quality logs that generally would not yield a significant proportion of grade lumber.
Stave: narrow sections of wood used to manufacture barrels or casks.
Stave logs: logs, typically white oak species, that meet desired specification for the manufacture of tight cooperage for use in the wine and spirits industry; used to manufacture stave bolts.
References:
Panshin, A.J., E.S. Harrar, J.S. Bethel, and W.J. Baker. 1962. Forest Products: Their Sources, Production, and Utilization. 2nd edition. McGraw-Hill Book Company. 538 p.
Stokes, B.J., C. Ashemore, C.L. Rawlins, and D.L. Sirois. 1989. Glossary of Terms Used in Timber Harvesting and Forest Engineering. Gen. Tech. Rep. SO-73. New Orleans, LA: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 33 p.
Wiedenbeck, J, M. Wiemann, D. Alderman, J. Baumgras, W. Luppold. 2004. Defining Hardwood Veneer Log Quality Attributes. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-313. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station. 36 p.
