Bulletwood

A dense, ultra‑durable hardwood prized for its strength and long‑term performance.

Common Name(s): Bulletwood, Massaranduba, Balata

Scientific Name: Manilkara bidentata

Distribution: Guyana, Suriname, Northern Brazil (Amazon Basin)

Bulletwood (Massaranduba) is one of the hardest and strongest commercial hardwoods from the Amazon region. Its exceptional density, durability, and resistance to decay make it ideal for heavy‑duty structural, marine, and exterior applications. The wood’s fine texture and uniform reddish‑brown colour also make it suitable for high‑end flooring and outdoor furniture. Bulletwood performs extremely well in harsh environments and is valued for its long service life.

Key Attributes

Appearance

Colour

Deep reddish‑brown to medium brown

Grain

Straight to slightly interlocked

Texture

Fine, uniform texture

Density

Extremely heavy

Performance

Workability

Difficult (very dense; requires pre‑drilling)

Durability

Excellent

Stability

Good dimensional stability

Technical Information

Property	Value
Janka Hardness	3,190 lbf
Modulus of Rupture	22,000–25,000 psi
Modulus of Elasticity	2,200,000 psi
Density	1,050 kg/m³ (65–66 lb/ft³)
Crushing Strength	11,500 psi
Shrinkage (Radial)	4.0%
Shrinkage (Tangential)	7.5%
Shrinkage (Volumetric)	11.5–12%
T/R Ratio	1.8–1.9
Workability	Difficult (high density + silica)
Planing	Fair, with sharp tools
Sanding	Good
Finishing	Excellent — accepts oils and varnish well
Stability	Good dimensional stability
Durability	Excellent
Moisture Movement	Low–Moderate