core testing timbers

huangyhg

core testing timbers
i am looking to purchase a tool to be able to extract small cores to test timbers, wood roof decking, etc for signs of decay. our firm used to have one but it has disappeared. the tool looks like a small hand auger or twist gimlet that you would screw into the timber and extract a small core to examine for signs of decay. it looks like an old fashioned hand drill but instead of the drill portion being solid it was hollow and it extracted a long core that you could examine to show you how solid the inside of the wood was. does anyone know what this tool is called or where i can purchase one?
on the case of mine, it says:
forrest supplies inc.
box 6337
jackson, mississippi
39204
and the part number is 63415
dik
i did a search on google and can no longer find a company called forrest supplies inc so i am still interested in any other advice of where i can purchase a tool to extract cores.
they are still there, dik just had the name off a little, it is "forestry suppliers, inc."
here is a page from their web site with several brands of increment borers and accessories to choose from
thanks sre... dik
try contacting a local presure treater or university forestry department.  they both probably use that type of tool and should be able to refer you to a supplier.
thanks to everyone on this forum for all of the help. i was able to find a supplier that could sell me this type of tool. it looks like it's main use is by people in the forestry business. two companies make them - haglof and suunto. the tool is called an increment borer.