We use quartersawn White Oak to produce our wooden dao. This cut produces greater dimentional stability and typically displays prominent ray fleck patterns (clearly visible in the photos above). The heartwood is tyloses abundant; making it water and rot proof. It's rated as 'very durable'; frequently used in boatbuilding and tight cooperage applications.

For us, White Oak strikes the best balance between weight, strength and beauty. The doas we make from it are thus perfect for Kung Fu or Tai Chi. Popular for in-class training as it will not cut fellow students by accident. Light enough for senior Tai Chi students to handle for extended periodes, yet heavy and strong enough for Kung Fu students to perfect their forms.