Having a custom set of tonfa made is a little different than picking up a pre-made set from your dojo or martial arts supplier. A pre-made set is generally made of "wood" - usually a species of oak, and usually unspecified. The only choice you have with a pre-made set is the length of the body. The handle will usually fit as long as the size of your hand is the average of someone that orders that length of body.
A custom set of tonfa is sized for you - it's length, size of the handle, style of the grip, thickness of the body and the species of wood. The most important thing to consider is the intended purpose of the weapon.
All-Round Use
If this is your only set of tonfa, having a medium weight tonfa that can stand up to regular contact is a good plan. The set should have a comfortable weight for you and also have a look that you can appreciate. Pau Ferro and Purpleheart are good all around choices - they have a moderate weight and stand up to a decent beating - both stronger and heavier than oak, but not too heavy for regular use.
Kata/Tournament Tonfa
If you're looking for a set of tonfa primarily for kata use or tournaments you can open up your options to lighter weight woods that are still durable but easier to move quickly and good for prolonged kata practice. Chakte Kok, also known as Redheart, is a beautiful wood, comparable in strength and weight to Red Oak, but smoother. It can take contact with a rattan bo quite well and light contact against other hardwoods.
Heavy Contact/Strength Training
If you're looking for a heavier tonfa for strength training or frequent, heavy contact, having a strong set of tonfa is a must. Wood choices such as Cocobolo, Verawood, Katalox or various Ebonies become more practical. They are heavy, durable and take contact well.
Whether you know exactly what you'd like or have absolutely no idea, we can help get you a perfect set of tonfa that will serve you well for years to come.