Abstract The pilodyn tester was assessed in stands of black spruce, white spruce, and tamarack to determine its value in selecting trees of higher than average specific gravity. Trees were sampled from natural stands representative of areas where plus trees are selected. The specific gravity was determined using an 11 mm increment core. Pilodyn pin readings from the four sides of the tree were then correlated with measured specific gravity. Statistically significant correlations were obtained in 17 of 18 stands. It is recommended that specific gravity be assessed using four pin penetration readings in all three species. North. J. Appl. For. 5:170-171, Sept. 1988.