Yes, the root ball for my project is long gone. Regarding figured wood in the root ball. First you have to hope that the logger left enough stem above ground for the fore end. Root ball has to be dug out, generally with a back hoe or excavator. Then cleaned and pressure washed to remove dirt, rocks, debris. Then, whittled on with a chain saw to get to a manageable size/shape. Then find a sawmill willing to dink with it. Then hope that it is sound wood when it is sawn and opened up. Then hope that it does not split, crack, cup, warp, or twist while drying...
OTOH, this project is about hopefully creating a few multi-generational heirlooms to honor the memory of a very special man who had a profound impact on our family. Uncle Bill was a quiet humble man of God, who was also bull strong, hard working, reliable and carried himself with a certain amount of understated class. He just passed in January at the age of 98. The block of wood came from his wood shop. My goal is that the stocks will be just as strong and just as reliable as he was, and also have some of the same understated class...
Last edited by Orion2000; 07/22/17.
