Hi Kanga, I've been keeping my mouth shut and watching your world class instruction on Chad's bow.
Do you realize you have set an example/standard in archery by showing your exact process for building an awesome bow! This is the first time in my life I have ever seen a bowyer have the balls to put his reputation on the line showing the process regardless of problems, even though they were beyond your control (it's wood, who knows!). This has been one of the most enjoyable experiences I have ever experienced on any archery forum I have ever viewed, hat's off dude, you are da MAN!

I also noticed that once you started cutting on that beautiful riser, some more color/detail came out in the wood. It started out being nice and just keeps getting better.
If you don't mind my asking, exactly what are you using for the finish, and will it be gloss/semi/or flat?

Changeling