> On Aug 4, 2022, at 5:01 PM, Erik Levin via groups.io
 wrote:
> 
> Thanks for all of the suggestions. I have a local source for sapele, and may
go with that, but have a slight worry about skin sensitivity.
> 
> Black locust sounds like a wonderful option, and I will need to see if a local
source has availability and do some pricing.
> 
> Ipe is a third choice, as I have no good source locally and the difficult
workability.
> 
> Any concern for any of these in large area contact with wrought iron? Are any
of these impractical to work with hand planes for shaping, hollows and rounds
for detail? The rail is iron (flat top) and the wood will be applied to the top
for appearance and surface feel.
> 

Ipe is very tough to work with hand tools and I found files to be helpful for
fie tuning a joint. I have not had any issues with skin sensitivity but the dust
is bad, I only sanded it with a respirator on after my first experience. Locust
and Sapele are easier to work w/ hand tools and I have had no reaction to the
woods. YMMV. My recollection is that Ipe wants stainless screws when used for
decks and other outdoor applications so you might want to do some research on
how it reacts to metal contact.

Bill