Kyle, No special purpose IMO. Certain woods develop a grain in certain circumstances that develop this attractive pattern. Maple is the most common but you can find it in walnut, koa, coco bolo, mahogany. I don't believe wood choice was ever an added cost option in the period that I am aware of like one has today with guitars for example. Rick
Wanted: German Naval Edged Weapons and Related Accouterments
