There are a few simple ways to judge how dry wood is if you don't have a moisture meter. The obvious way is when was it harvested. Does it feel light or have any drying splits evident?  Some species (like Cherry) will develop a lot of splits as it air dries.  Oftentimes the end of the shaft will show splits (aka checks) first.  Remember it'll take larger, thicker items longer to dry and season. Dry wood will have more of a "ring" to it when you tap it with another piece of wood as compared to a dull thud that wet wood produces. Consider how it has been stored as well.  If it has been stored in a hot arid enviroment it is bound to be drier than if it was under a tarp on the ground.