The texture of a hickory nutshell may be smooth, with minimal veining, or considerably irregular and furrowed. Husks split open at the base once the fruit (nut) inside has fully ripened, although some species partially encapsulate the hickory nut even after splitting. Husks vary in thickness from 2 mm to 9 mm, depending on the hickory nut species
If you use the rock method, place a nut on a piece of flat concrete, then slam the nut with a wide rock until the shell cracks. It’s hand to use a nutcracker to finish the job once the shell is partially open. You can save the shells and burn them along with wood to help a fire last longer.
Leftover hickory nuts should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for a few months before rotting. Or you can freeze the nuts for up to a year. Pack them tightly in freezer-safe containers, removing as much of the air from the containers as possible. Label the containers and store them in the freezer.
