07-11-2007, 06:09 PM
The hardwood most common around Europe is oak. Beach is also abundant and could be used. Nice grain! Ash would not really class as a hardwood, but I do agree it is an excellent choice. Hazel also makes a nice straight shaft, but is less strong then ash. I will be trying to handcraft an ash spearpole in due time, using an ax and a spokeshave. I have some excellent material, having obtained a fairly straight six foot log 40# diameter.
