If you were looking for ebony for a forearm tip what would be the ideal size?

2 1/2" X 2 1/2" X 4"

I have a larger chunk that I cut off of when I need one. Usually, a cube 2"-2.25" will do. It doesn't need to be as big as the uncut blank, just big enough to not leave gaps on the finished product. A little planning before attaching it goes a long way. A pile of ebony dust and curls on the floor won't make you feel better.

I don't understand the need for a 4" long piece. That would be an awful lot of ebony sticking out there. Then again, a trip to the bandsaw and I'd have two pieces!

You want it big and long enough to shape as needed. The last thing you want is to dictate the shape of the tip by the size of the piece glued on the end of the stock. 4" gives you plenty of room for a couple of try's before you glue in on.

A lot of ebony is sold in that size and it seems to work pretty good.

I'm just assuming you're looking for a piece to buy.

Terry

You can easily cut enough off of a 4" piece to get a grip cap from and still have plenty for shaping the forend tip.