Hi,
Yes I know “old tools” stands for great “older” tools.  However, most of us have
at least one or more slightly more modern device that is relevant to wood.  The
link below takes the reader to an article about an app (free or cheap I think)
that allows one to test wood stiffness with a hammer and a cell phone (that has
a microphone).  As the link indicates, the app was developed by  Mississippi
State.  I have never tried the app.  While the authors are emphasizing lumber, I
also thought of musical instruments, species variation, and variation with
moisture content.

https://www.msstate.edu/newsroom/article/2019/02/mississippi-state-
develops-smartphone-app-test-
lumber/">https://www.msstate.edu/newsroom/article/2019/02/mississippi-state-
develops-smartphone-app-test-lumber/


Take care,

Cal Meier
Central Louisiana