Nyogtha, you tell me the truth, pecan wood is the hardest wood there is for smoking. But, the flavor it leaves is un frickin believable, right? I think so, anyway. And hickory, not store bought, but right from the tree! My buddy had some land up in Tallahassee. It was full of cherry trees. He would always bring me back about 100 lbs. of cherry wood. IMO, cherry wood and pecan are the BEST!
I have never used apple wood. Any one want to define the taste it leaves? I tried orange wood once. That's it, ONCE! I always soak my wood in water. And, I ALWAYS maintain a cooking temperature of 225*-250*. ALWAYS!