A trip to the BWCA with my canoeing buddies in June. I might hang around for a solo afterwards, depending on the weather. Hopefully I can get some local paddling in this year, too.
Ok folks, I finally got a chance to look at the two finishes, in the pictures of knives that Dave has actually made. Considering the choice of wood and metals that we've made, I have to change my vote to satin. I think it'll just look right. Sorry for acting like a politician and flip flopping...
That maple sure is pretty, but the stability of the ironwood, coupled with its good looks, make it my choice. With brass bolsters, and a high polish on the blade so it's easier to clean. I'm still working on a name.