What attributes should be looked for when looking for a wood blank for a DR? The reason I ask is I am having a Searcy made for me and will be wading through his wood pile on monday and would like to have some idea on what to look for. Not sure if it matters but it is a deluxe boxlock in 500 NE. Personally the darker woods appeal to me more then the lighter colored woods...Does this make any difference in strength etc? I have been told in the past that the grain should run lengthwise down the piece but thats where my knowledge ends. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.