that's it. You did. I have finally seen a simple knife with no bolster that doesn't look like something is missing. You got me at, "stabilized oak and copper" and had me the rest of the way. Actually, some of the prettiest wood I have ever seen was oak, treated with aqua fortis (it goes purple and gold), and then with a grain-filling oil finish. Stabilized, I assume, would be a lot like it (without the gold to highlight the chatoyance). Of course, the piece I treated with af was probably luck. Tanin concentration varies a lot, I think.
Off topic, sorry. Those are just right. One of those simple things that is difficult to do just right because there is nothing to hide behind. I am really impressed. Sort of like asking a great chef to make an omelet. Seems easy, but it is actually (supposed to be) a good way to learn about his ability. These knives rock.
