Originally Posted by One of Many  ......Cut a 3/8" slot through one side and cap it off with a 3/8" glued block that will gain you a 3/8x1/2" core opening. Using a differrent wood can give a nice contrasting lamination....... |
Much nicer.
Maybe less work also.
For fixturing make a shallow wooden trough secured to the mill table.
Support the walking stick in this with a few little wooden blocks.
Pour a high melting point paraffin wax around the stick to cast it in place.
Do your machining.
Melt the wax away with a hot air gun.