Mike asks:


I recently picked up a set of old socketed chisels with very nasty handles.
I am planning to make a new set of handles on the Delta lathe I just bought.
What is the best choice of wood for the handles. Someone suggested ash.

Ash is good. Hickory is good. Boxwood is great (if you can find it and afford
it). Purpleheart is excellent. The list really goes on. Among others that
might do well are hard maple, Pacific madrone, pau rosa, pau marfim, degame,
American hornbeam, hackberry, greenheart, satinwood, canalete, dogwood,
persimmon, and a true host of others, including white and live oaks.

Charlie Self
"Politics: A strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The
conduct of public affairs for private advantage. " Ambrose Bierce