TH,

Instead of a ball one could then use a wider section of another hardwood to shape out a crook for the top with a scroll saw. With a bit of antler horn for a bolster one would then have a rather nice cromach!

Cheers

Jamie


Quote Originally Posted by Tartan Hiker View Post
While you're waiting for the perfect sapling to present itself, look around for someone in the area that works with hardwood lumber (cabinetmaker, flooring company, etc.) See if you can find a piece of kiln-dried oak that is at least 3/4" thick (1" or 5/4" would be better). Now go to your table saw and rip it along each side to a perfect square cross-section. Set up for 45 degree rip cuts, then shave off the edges to produce an octagon. Use a rasp to smooth off and taper the last 12" down to the tip, ending with a round cross-section. At the craft center buy a hardwood ball about 1.5" in diameter and mount it to the top with a short threaded rod. Finish with linseed, Watco oil, or polyurathane, then add a rubber chair foot cover to the tip.

The major advantage of this style over sapling sticks is that it is hefty and tough as nails. I've used, and broken, dozens of sapling hiking sticks, and I no longer trust them for heavy duty use. I've never heard a groan from an oak board stick. With a good finish and maybe a light staining they are weatherproof and lovely.