[shovelhead]

Newby here fellas so Im gonna jump right in. I have a customer that brought me his brothers old shillelagh he had since the early 60's (1960's) and wanted some repairs or at best a reduex on the finish and what to do about the bark. Here are some pics from the very start. I have not started because, well, I just don't know much about this stick except its origin and type wood. Any info on giving this guy a good tune up.

 

[CV3]

Not sure you can do alot to help that one. You can use epoxy mixed with saw dust from a similar wood to fill the cracks. or some of the epoxy puddies. Both should be packed in slowly getting as deep as you can into the crack. The Bark is dryed out and loosing its grip on the wood. You can try sanding the edges around the areas where the bark is coming off and try using a penetrating oil type finish. If that does not work to hold the bark the stick can be sanded down and refinished. I would tell the owner it would be best to sand of the bark. If he wanted a dark stick the area below the grip can be stained with a ebony stain and the the stick finishe with a spar urethane. My best thought on this. Other may have different thought.

 

[dww2]

I'd say that CV3's assessment was pretty spot on. I've had decent luck filling cracks with thin super glue and sawdust.

As for the bark, you could try and save it. I'd remove it to the lowest point where it is missing so it's even, then flood thin super glue under it and clamp it. (Maybe wrap it with a bungee cord to apply pressure around the circumference) Not sure if it would work, but if you find a loose spot, maybe drill a very small hole and apply the super glue through it, then fill it with dark sawdust to hide the hole. Or even just run it into any cracks you find. It will seep into the wood and the bark. There is a brand called Starbond which comes with a super fine applicator. I have done bark repairs on a couple of sticks and the result wasn't really noticeable. Even replaced missing bits of bark when I had an off cut with similar coloring.

I'd definitely get rid of that band and replace it with a solid cap or ferrule of some sort. Even something as simple as a copper pipe fitting will protect the end of the stick from moisture and wear.

 

[shovelhead]

Yeah ! There ya go. This is EXCACTLY why I got here for the knowledge and without drama and labeling just straight to the point. I know these are y'all's ideas and damn good ones. I will consider and inform customer on options. Don't worry I'll your names out of it. Good day