I think it looks good and it creates a talking peice when hung on the wall . Thast the advantage of having a lathe the decorative finish you can get by combining wood is stunning and have always loved it
I like danish oil think that absorbs in to the wood well ,but does need more then one coat.
Not bad for knocking it up in the afternoon eh
The bark on the hazel and chestnut shanks come up really well with it and does offer some protection but the bark gives is the best protection a natural finish .
The work has made me look up truncheon and tipstave over the ages ,some of them fetch a princley sum and are very collectable even reproduction ones
It has a long history
makes me wish for a lathe but no room , but would a love a small one , as oftern could use one for making bits and pieces for the stickmaking ,such as bowler hats etc.