I just checked the wood descriptions on the turtle page, and they state that Padouk doesn't need a finish and has a tone similar to maple. For bass necks, they use also Wenge, but their description indicates that it needs to be brightened up a little. However, I heard mixed opinions on the accuracy of these statements in general, as every piece may be different from another.

I also very much like the idea of a no-finish axe, but I think when it comes to exotic woods, we shouldn't forget the sources of these materials. I definately wouldn't want to participate in the further destruction of the rainforests in south america and other regions.