Hi Roy
That'll be why they recommended a band saw then, so thanks for that.
hazegry
I take it that you are also in the antipodes (no location on your profile) as we don't get access to these exotic woods in the UK these days. I also used to make pens but from silver/silver gilt and gold as give aways for Arab banks.
P.S. I've never heard of cocobolo or purpleheart? but do have family in Aus................can feel a business opportunity coming on!! ( not really, retired)
John C
my wife is a cabinet maker and antique restorer, - she says these so called exotic woods are available here in the Uk, but generally through specialist suppliers and retailers only, - try looking into your nearest specialist woodworking shop or look at the big ones in the Uk , eg axminster tools, or Tillgear, or Isaac lords, - these places sell wood turning equipment, they also run courses and they also sell exotic woods too,
the costs may be slightly more but they allow you to add some lovely timbers ot your models or projects !