Aussiedistiller, Home Distilling, Moonshine, Home Brew

I just picked up a new Balcones French oak barrel that was used once for whiskey. It smells way stronger than the once used sticks I'm used to. I age my rum on used sticks that were used for UJSSM at 140 proof, never had a problem with it being over oaked. This barrel smells way more powerful than any sticks, so I was thinking to avoid over oaking my rum I'll proof it down to 115 or so. Is this dumb or smart or not even necessary?? I really haven't a clue. Also, haven't used French oak in this amount before.

I’m yet to use anything but sticks myself but I remember reading the best flavours come off the wood at around 65-75% or 130-150 proof. What size is the barrel? Also there is a chart around here in regards to ageing and oaking.

It's a 5 US gallon barrel.

This thread might be helpful https://aussiedistiller.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=7547