Persimmon ?

[Ray Ussery]

Persimmon appears to be a reasonable choice for backs and sides for beginners...OR maybe others?
It seems to be deemed "The American Ebony" I understand it's really hard...which means it is probably hard to bend also huh?.. on the other hand it should ring very clear and pair well with a Red Cedar or Redwood top...just curious...as expensive as many woods are becoming, always on the outlook for something affordable for future plans. :>)

Ray

[TonyinNYC]

Persimmon would work. I know some have used it for finger boards and bridges. The problem might be finding it in sizes suitable for an acoustic back and side set. The trees I have seen do not seem to grow straight without branches for very long distances from the stump. They all seem to look like something you would see outside of a haunted house. All bent and full of crazy, twisted branches.

[Kevin in California]

RC Tonewoods has some on Ebay right now, b & S, fretboards, bridge blanks

[ken cierp]

If you are talking economics 1/4 sawn Persimmon is certainly not inexpensive and suitable for practice guitars. Check out Silver Maple -- inexpensive, unusual, attractive and easy to work.

[Ray Ussery]

Thanks all!