What can I possibly say about the boards I received from John and The Boardsmith? I ordered end-grain maple in both a Carolina and a Sidekick. These things came dripping with oil. So much so that the box was soaked. Took me about an hour to get the Carolina to stop sucking in more oil; the Sidekick was much faster.
Once they got a coat of Board Butter, they looked and felt amazing. So much so that it took me about four days before I could bring myself to even use one to cut! The Sidekick is perfect for small stuff like snacks or quick veggie cuts. The Carolina is a beast. I cut larger quantities of veggies on there, and it is well suited for the task. When it came to washing, the Board Butter made the water just bead up.
At some point I am sure that I will be much harder on these boards. But for now, they are just too easy on the eyes!
BTW, the 'other' board under mine is from another manufacturer. Was left with the house. Boardsmith is by far superior!