Alternate Woods for Rails

[Hezz]

I need to replace the exterior cabin hand rails on my boat. The current ones are not teak, and not a standard length/configuration, so pre-made teak ones are out. What is a good/cheaper alternative to teak? I need a wood that bends easily, and is fairly strong (we race and the rails get a lot of heavy use).

[Breakaway]

Excellent thread detailing handrail construction and installation. (http://forum.woodenboat.com/showthread.php?110383-Help-me-design-my-grabrails)

[Vinny&Shawn]

Black Locust should be readily available, white oak. That's about it for New England??

[Hezz]

Thanks! My search for hand rails didn't bring this up.