Turkish boxwood

[Matthew N. Masail]

http://www.octopus.com.tr/store/?page=products&action=product_detail&rid=57&cat=340&mc=&id=885

Simply put, what's the deal with this wood that makes it so desiarble for plane making?

[Jim Matthews]

It's hard, stable and carves well.

It's like Basswood, with an attitude.
"B(ad)asswood"

[Matthew N. Masail]

got it, thanks ! :) I think I'll use the sapele I have with a ebony sole

[David Keller NC]

Also, boxwood develops a really beautiful honey-colored patina after use and exposure to U.V. That patina is what drives the collector's market for planes in this wood.

Wow - this stuff sure has gotten pricey. The piece that you linked to, if my math is right, works out to $191 per b.f., and that doesn't count shipping.

[Matthew N. Masail]

thier prices include shipping.... but it's still crazy high... however I do hear that the patina has a marked improvment in tear out with defficult grain.