Scientific Name: Millettia laurentii
Origin: Native to Central and West Africa, primarily found in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Gabon.
CITES Status: Not currently listed under CITES regulations but is subject to sustainable harvesting concerns.
Use in Guitar Making
Wenge is used for guitar necks, fingerboards, backs and sides, and electric guitar bodies. It is favoured for its strength and rigidity, making it an excellent alternative to more traditional hardwoods. Its dark coloration and distinctive grain pattern also make it a popular aesthetic choice.
Tonal Properties
Wenge offers a strong fundamental tone with pronounced mids and excellent note separation. It provides a slightly brighter and more articulate response than rosewood while maintaining warmth and depth. Its stiffness contributes to good sustain and projection, making it well-suited for both acoustic and electric guitars.
Hardness and Workability
Janka Hardness Rating: Approximately 1,930 lbf (8,600 N)
Wenge is a very hard and dense wood, making it durable but difficult to work with. It can be brittle, causing splintering if not handled properly. Sharp tools are required, and its porous nature makes gluing more challenging. However, once finished, it is highly resistant to wear.
Grain Structure and Porosity
Wenge has a coarse, open grain structure with a straight to slightly interlocked pattern. Its texture is rougher than many traditional tonewoods, requiring substantial grain filling for a smooth finish. The dark brown to black coloration with lighter streaks makes it visually distinctive.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Though not currently listed under CITES, Wenge is subject to sustainability concerns due to habitat loss and slow regrowth rates. Ethical sourcing is encouraged, with many manufacturers opting for FSC-certified Wenge to ensure responsible harvesting.
Wenge continues to be a valued tonewood in both acoustic and electric guitar construction, offering strength, striking aesthetics, and a well-balanced tonal profile. Its future use depends on sustainable forestry practices and responsible sourcing efforts.
