Brent, how could you? I mean, here ya go introducing the unwelcome element of good ole common sense into a discussion about aesthetics! Yes, black walnut or juglans nigra has some spectacular figure, but it also has the same exact drawback as the Ruger No 1 action, at least for persons of a particular taste. Both the Ruger action and the highly-figured black walnut are eminently qualified to fulfil any needs of the hunt as well as any desires for artistic appreciation, but....
But unfortunately both are also so inexpensive as to be available to (gasp) almost anyone!
I mean, how is anyone expected to know that I'm a special person if all I can come up with is something any Bubba can buy down at the nearest Wally World? (VBG) Sorry, end of rant, but you get my point. There're also the facts that juglans regia is marginally lighter and stronger for its weight and that eventual age doesn't tend to darken & obscure its figure as much as with juglans nigra and it's easier to fill the pores when finishing and it cuts cleaner and its diamonds are stronger and etc etc.
But mainly juglans regia is more exclusive, a mark of affluence and/or apparent aesthetic appreciation. That other walnut just ain't got the same braggin' rights!
Regards, Joe
