Wasn't sure if that was grain or saw marks.. I used to maple branches which I think this is without heartwood.. All good firewood..
Wolves1 I understand what you're going through. I myself have been trying to learn all I can about tree and wood identification. Much easier when you have the whole tree in front of you.
If you haven't got one, I highly recommend a good book of trees of the northeast. You don't have to learn about trees of other regions. Just focus on what's growing around you, it will come to you pretty quick.
Once you spend a little time id'ing a tree, you'll never forget it and you'll be able to pick them out at a glance.
Funny thing about red maple... Was gathering some wood from a neighbor who lost a couple trees last fall. He had a small stack of rounds that were light as a feather and asked if I wanted them too. Said his tree guy didn’t want em. They had been stacked on a pallet and top covered... just from looking at them, feeling the weight and knowing he tree guy left em, I could’ve sworn they were hemlock... much to my surprise, when they went through the splitter, they came out the other side as bone dry red maple. Straight to the stove this past winter..... just goes to show that the ID game can continue to be a tough one...
Wolves1, you are doing pretty good, do not worry it will come fast!! Harder to ID from pictures where you only get to use eyesight instead of your other senses also.