Measuring Moisture: Cross-Grain or Along the Grain?

Different moisture meters are calibrated for different testing orientations. July 29, 2014

Question (WOODWEB Member) :
How do you measure the moisture content of KD wood with a pin type moisture meter? There was a small discussion with my group whether it should be along the grain or across the grain. Which one is the best way and why?

Forum Responses
(Sawing and Drying Forum)
From Gene Wengert, forum technical advisor:
It depends on the brand of moisture meter, as some are calibrated for one direction and some for the other. However, at low MCs, it does not matter.

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From contributor W:
Most of the European meters I have seen are made for across the grain. The good USA meters are calibrated for along the grain. Pine is tough because of knots and wet pockets make getting a meaningful reading hard especially when above 25%. If you are selling the lumber, use the meter your customer uses if possible. That is Gene's long time practical suggestion.

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From Gene Wengert, forum technical advisor:
I believe the Lignomat (made in OR) also is across the grain. Delmhorst is along the grain.