I've tried my best to stay out of this discussion but,...... assumptions cannot be made based on not examining the particular product of question. I cant support or ridicule H&H's cane blanks having never seen them. It is true that in the past a lot of imported blanks have not met standards expected. At the same time what makes it any different to thinK an unknown US maker would be any different unless examined? I'm fairly sure if H&H were asked to submit one of each blank for examination & review they would be happy to. IMO this is where JC, and his product reviews will be sorely missed........Ed