{"product_id":"koa-knife-scale-6","title":"Koa Knife Scale","description":"\u003cp\u003e.75 x 1.5 x 6\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa Wood (Acacia koa) is one of the most beautiful and highly prized hardwoods in the world, celebrated for its rich golden-brown to reddish-brown coloration, spectacular grain patterns, and exceptional natural luster. Native exclusively to the Hawaiian Islands, genuine Hawaiian Koa is highly sought after by woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, instrument builders, and fine woodworkers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is especially admired for its extraordinary natural figure, which can include curly, fiddleback, quilted, wavy, and interlocked grain. Its warm colors, beautiful chatoyance, and ability to take an exceptional finish make it an outstanding choice for custom pens, knife handles, bottle stoppers, game calls, decorative turnings, and specialty woodworking projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery piece of Koa offers its own combination of color, grain, and natural character, making this remarkable Hawaiian hardwood an excellent choice for creating distinctive, one-of-a-kind projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Information\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Name: Acacia koa A. Gray\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFamily: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenus: Acacia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecies: Acacia koa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Type: Tropical hardwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimary Origin: Hawaiian Islands, United States\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon \u0026amp; Trade Names\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa, Koa Wood, Hawaiian Koa, Hawaiian Koa Wood, Koa Hardwood, Curly Koa, Figured Koa, Fiddleback Koa, Quilted Koa, Hawaiian Acacia, and Koa Acacia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImportant: Genuine Hawaiian Koa is botanically identified as Acacia koa. Other woods marketed under names such as Australian Koa or Koa-like Acacia are not necessarily the same species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Distribution\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, meaning it occurs naturally nowhere else in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt grows in native Hawaiian forests, particularly at middle and higher elevations, and is one of Hawaii's most culturally and economically important native hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHistorically, Koa was used by Native Hawaiians to construct canoes, surfboards, bowls, weapons, and other important objects. Today, it is highly valued for fine furniture, musical instruments, woodturning, and specialty woodworking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause genuine Hawaiian Koa has a limited natural distribution and remains in high demand, quality Koa lumber and turning blanks are considered premium specialty hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor \u0026amp; Appearance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is admired for its exceptionally rich and varied natural coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeartwood may display:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHoney brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmber\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrange brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReddish brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep reddish chocolate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sapwood is generally pale yellow to creamy white, providing attractive contrast with the darker heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHighly figured Koa can exhibit dramatic, three-dimensional grain patterns that appear to shimmer or change as the viewing angle and lighting shift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor and figure vary naturally from piece to piece. Not every Koa blank will display curly or highly figured grain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain \u0026amp; Texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa typically has a medium to coarse texture, with grain ranging from straight to wavy, interlocked, or highly figured.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon figure types include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCurly Koa: Repeating waves or curls that produce shimmering patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiddleback Koa: Tight, regular curls particularly prized in musical instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuilted Koa: Broad, rolling figure resembling a quilted surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWavy Koa: Flowing, irregular grain patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFigured Koa: A general term for Koa displaying distinctive natural grain patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHighly figured Koa may exhibit exceptional chatoyance, producing remarkable depth and movement under a clear finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Characteristics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is a moderately dense hardwood offering an excellent balance of strength, workability, and natural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepresentative characteristics for Acacia koa include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAverage Dried Weight: Approximately 38 lbs\/ft³ (610 kg\/m³)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecific Gravity: Approximately 0.53 basic \/ 0.61 at 12% moisture content\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJanka Hardness: Approximately 1,170 lbf (5,200 N)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain: Straight, wavy, or interlocked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTexture: Medium to coarse\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Luster: Moderate to high\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese values are representative of the species. Individual blanks may vary depending on growth conditions, moisture content, and grain structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStability \u0026amp; Durability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is generally considered a moderately durable hardwood, with heartwood offering some natural resistance to decay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProperly dried Koa can provide good dimensional stability for interior woodworking applications. However, like all hardwoods, it may expand or contract with changes in environmental moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHighly figured pieces may contain irregular grain and internal stresses, making proper drying, storage, and acclimation especially important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor smaller precision projects such as pens, knife handles, and game calls, properly dried Koa can provide excellent long-term performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorkability \u0026amp; Woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is highly regarded among woodturners and fine woodworkers for its attractive cutting characteristics and exceptional finished appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight-grained Koa generally machines and turns well with sharp tools. Highly figured or interlocked material may require lighter cuts and careful tool presentation to minimize tear-out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa is especially suitable for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePen turning blanks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife scales\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottle stoppers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuck calls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGame calls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurkey call components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall bowls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative vessels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine woodworking projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts combination of warm coloration, striking figure, and natural luster makes Koa an excellent choice for projects where the natural beauty of the wood is the primary feature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinishing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa responds beautifully to clear finishes that enhance its natural color, depth, and figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePopular finishing options include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDanish oil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTung oil finishes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardwax oils\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShellac\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLacquer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolyurethane\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCyanoacrylate (CA) finishes for pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWax finishes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA clear finish can dramatically enhance the chatoyance of curly and figured Koa, bringing out the shimmering grain patterns and rich golden-to-reddish-brown coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCareful sanding through progressively finer grits helps produce a smooth finished surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor highly figured pieces, sharp tools and careful sanding are particularly important to minimize torn grain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal Uses\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa Wood blanks are excellent for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePen blanks and custom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWoodturning projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife handles and knife scales\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottle stoppers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuck calls and game calls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurkey call components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall bowls and vessels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry and accessories\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine carving\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecialty woodworking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollectible and artistic projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealth \u0026amp; Safety\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa wood dust may cause irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential concerns include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkin Irritation: Contact with wood dust may cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRespiratory Irritation: Inhalation of dust may irritate the nose, throat, and respiratory system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEye Irritation: Airborne particles may cause redness and discomfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSensitization: Repeated exposure may increase sensitivity in susceptible individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen cutting, sanding, drilling, or turning Koa:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse effective dust collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWear properly fitted respiratory protection appropriate for fine wood dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse safety glasses or a face shield as appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid prolonged skin contact with accumulated dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain adequate workshop ventilation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClean work areas using dust extraction rather than compressed air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with all woodworking materials, appropriate protective equipment and responsible dust management are recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCITES \u0026amp; Conservation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa (Acacia koa) is not generally listed under CITES.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, because Koa is native exclusively to the Hawaiian Islands, responsible sourcing and forest management are particularly important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa harvesting and distribution may be subject to land ownership restrictions, local forestry regulations, and other applicable requirements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternational buyers should verify import requirements and any documentation needed for wood shipments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInteresting Facts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative to Hawaii: Genuine Koa occurs naturally only in the Hawaiian Islands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCultural Importance: Koa was traditionally used by Native Hawaiians to make canoes, surfboards, bowls, and other important objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeaning of Koa: The Hawaiian word koa is associated with bravery and warriors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical Instruments: Koa is highly prized for guitars, ukuleles, and other musical instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExceptional Figure: Curly and fiddleback Koa are among the most desirable figured hardwoods used in fine woodworking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Chatoyance: Highly figured Koa can produce dramatic shimmering effects under a clear finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy Choose Koa Wood?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa combines extraordinary natural beauty, rich color, distinctive figure, and excellent workability in one premium Hawaiian hardwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts golden, amber, reddish-brown, and chocolate tones create a warm, luxurious appearance, while curly and figured grain patterns can give finished projects remarkable visual depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, call makers, and fine woodworkers, genuine Hawaiian Koa offers an exceptional material for creating distinctive, premium-quality projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're turning a custom pen, crafting a knife handle, making a bottle stopper, or creating a decorative piece, Koa provides natural character and beauty that make every finished project special.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOakbrook Wood Turning Supply offers Koa Wood for craftsmen seeking premium hardwood blanks with exceptional color, figure, and natural appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoa, Koa wood, Hawaiian Koa, Hawaiian Koa wood, Koa wood blanks, Koa pen blanks, Koa turning blanks, Koa turning wood, Koa hardwood, Koa wood for sale, Koa pen turning wood, Koa knife handle wood, Koa knife scales, Koa bottle stopper blanks, Koa call blanks, Koa game call blanks, Koa duck call blanks, Koa turkey call blanks, Acacia koa, Acacia koa wood, Hawaiian Acacia, Curly Koa, Curly Koa wood, Curly Koa blanks, Curly Koa pen blanks, Figured Koa, Figured Koa wood, Figured Koa blanks, Fiddleback Koa, Quilted Koa, Hawaiian hardwood, Hawaiian wood blanks, tropical hardwood, exotic hardwood, exotic wood blanks, premium hardwood blanks, specialty wood blanks, figured hardwood, curly wood blanks, chatoyant wood, musical instrument wood, ukulele wood, guitar wood, pen making wood, pen turning blanks, woodturning blanks, wood lathe blanks, knife handle blanks, knife scale blanks, bottle stopper wood, carving wood, woodworking supplies, fine woodworking, specialty turning wood, premium turning blanks, Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45230687092936,"sku":"Koa 9","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0004\/1399\/0978\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_084965c5-9e45-4862-9012-e9c5990d69db.jpg?v=1791733688","url":"https:\/\/oakbrookwoodturningsupply.com\/products\/koa-knife-scale-6","provider":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","version":"1.0","type":"link"}