I just finished my bowsprite and thought I would post it just incase someone needs a few ideas. I made it out of Ash with a Walnut trim. I spit the two pieces and joined them with threaded rod. It was very easy to bed in and put a good size backing plate for support. I have a 40 LB CQR and it makes life much more easier. If you need any information just email me at sailinisfree@aol.com. or inisfree@pocketmail.com. We are getting ready to cruise in Oct and will be on the pocketmail for a while. dave