That's a good looking stick and I'm sure what ever topper you decide on, will look great. I too like seeing your clamping method. I have just recently started carving and have done 3 wood spirit faces on 12 inch long pieces of poplar that I cut from my woods. I do have lengths of maple and other common woods from the area but wanted to get some experience before I "ruin" one of my decent sticks. I would love to see some photos of a portable type holding device for carving walking sticks as I am at the campground for the summer and have only a picnic table at the time. Does anyone have photos or links that I could possibly follow? Thank you for your time.