Koa wood.

[fjimp]

I am almost afraid to post this experience. Last year my daughter bought about 50 pen blanks for me as a birthday gift. There were several Koa blanks included. Some were great and turned beautifully each of those made stunning and unusual pens or pencils. The balance of the Koa wood was a nightmare to drill and turn. Given the cost of the wood and shipping I wanted to cry when the poorer examples failed during the turning process. Personally when I first saw the blanks those that were problematic concerned me. Had I been the shipper I would never have sold or shipped those few blanks to anyone. Then again I doubt seriously I would ever order from that outfit again. Fjimp