John,
A lot of those Olive trees are gone, making way for new houses. I'm looking into a supplier for the wood. When I was working up in Pamplona, the Christmas market was still going on. One of the booths was filled with olive wood products. I struck up a conversation with the guy, and promised him I'd send him a pen. Now they want to talk to me about...?? Who knows maybe a new customer or wholesale or maybe just a good source for olive wood burls. time will tell.
I was station at Torrejon from 84 to 91. Retired from the AF and moved back. I think you would be surprised on how much Spain in general has changed.
Tom,
I know what you mean about wenge being hard to work with, but with sheets about 1/16" and soaked in CA it didn't give me any problems.
Rolltide,
The PH vise is worth the wait.