I normally buy coconut for fruit salads already grated. Come the holidays, I begin baking more and I could buy a whole coconut and could grate off what I need and set the shell aside for you. How hard are they to cut open without damaging the shell? What do I use, a saw? I thought coconuts were pretty hard shelled. I know I've held whole coconuts before but I don't recall ever buying one and having to crack it open.
I drained the coconut milk out & then used a band saw. I also quartered one & that makes neat mounts as well. Drill holes in the bottom & on the sides to attach a wire hanger & you're set!