Brazos Straight Pine Wood Walking Stick, Handcrafted Wooden Staff, Hiking Stick for Men and Women, Trekking Pole, Wooden Walking Stick, Made in the USA, 48 Inches, Brown, 4 Foot

Q: I assume the "lacquer finish" is clear. Could it be black (or the wood stained black) instead?

The walking stick appears to be stained/lacquered/varnished/Minwax-ed a medium brown with the wood grain visible through the finish. I'm not sure if there's an option for colors on the product description page. I don't see why you couldn't "do-it-yourself" a different color over the "factory paint". Perhaps a dark stain which still preserves the wood grain pattern visible through the finish?

Q: Does it have the option to change the tip?

There was no option to change it. You can remove it and replace it. Anything other than a push on tip may require modification to the stick

Q: I know it breaks down into 3 pieces but is it the same 3 pieces from a singular staff or "frankensteined" together from multiple different pieces?

It is 3 pieces from a single staff.

Q: what size replacement rubber tips should I order

Hi! I bought mine just recently, so I have never had the need of a new rubber tip, but I measure what I have and the bottom part is 1 inch 1/2, and the height is 1 inch 5/8 and the opening where the stick goes is about 1 inch 1/8. Have you tried to call Brazos company? I think they would be able to tell you better. Hope this help you a little.