Koa shopping on the Big Island of Hawaii?

[JC Whitney]

I'm on the Big Island of Hawaii for a few days, and it occurred to me that it might be fun to try to track down a nice piece of Koa. Any recommendations for a place to "shop"? I'm not in the market for AAA/master quality, just a funky chunk or two.

Thanks ~

[Mark Swanson]

Look up Bob Gleason, of Pegasus guitars.

[JC Whitney]

Thanks Mark - I got in touch with Bob. Nice guy. I was originally thinking I'd pick up a bit of koa, but after looking at the Pegasus web site I fell for spalted mango. Bob's shop is way out in the sticks so stopping by wasn't really in the cards (but if anyone is in the market, check out his web site). Paradise hardwoods, a local shop, hooked me up with a few beautiful pieces for the price of a few gallons of milk. Will post some pics once back on the mainland.

[Mark Swanson]

Cool! Wish I could say hi to Bob myself!

[Tom Owen]

If you make it to Kauai, say aloha

[JC Whitney]

Alas Tom, we're on the Big Island only. Packing up today and headed home tomorrow... Mahalo though.