Buying from the 'little guy'

[frankjay02]

Hello all,
I have decided on the first five carving tools I want to buy to get started, but I want to buy from the "little guy" rather than the huge stores that have stores all over the US. I do NOT want to buy palm tools because they aggravate the arthritis in
my basal joints and carpals...I need the full sized tools so I can use two hands and light mallet work when needed. I will not be doing caricatures or santas and such but mostly flat green men, and stylistic carvings maybe a foot tall. Hopefully I will be able to do in the round 'mountain men' and such some day.
I will be buying name brand tools but would rather give my business to the small business owner where sales and service still means something.
Thanks in advance for any help. I appreciate the help I get here
Frank in NJ

[DiamondWillow]

I feel the same as you about using a small shop. My favorite shop is
http://www.thewoodcraftshop.com/

at Bettendorf, Ia. Always have great service from them and very reasonable shipping. Good people.....

Gene

[SlowMover]

I have ordered from Robert Statlander (just do a web search on his name) and have gotten excellent service via mail from him...he is also a world class carver and has written articles for WCI.

[Robson Valley]

Magard Log Home Building Tools. One guy, in business for 30 years. Huge warehouse FULL of tools. He has every knife and carving gouge that Pfeil ever made. Check out his website. Don't call Maurice before noon, PST, he's a night owl.
Rick Wiebe in Kelowna/Westbank, BC (Wood'nWildcraft(?) is another "little guy" who deals with everybody like they were friends.

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Two of the best! (IMHO)

The WoodCraft Shop - Online Store
Little Shavers Wood Carving Supply

Dave

[Donsexton]

Wood Carvers Supply is a Mom and Pop company and so is Traditional Woodworkers your exclusive source for full size Henry Taylor tools.

[Whittled Thumb]

I'm under the impression that most shops are indipendent shops? Few shops cater to carving that are huge; maybe Rockler. Good luck

[Robson Valley]

I'm not sure. I'll guess that Leonard Lee (aka Lee Valley/Veritas) knows that there are a bunch of people who supply tools, not the enormous range of woodworking and garden goods that he can.
Many of the small tool suppliers are tool-makers, themselves. I wanted a froe, got it pounded out by a blacksmith nearly 1,000 miles from me. Flatlander Forge. I could not find anybody with an internet presence any closer to me. BTW, 100% satisfaction.

[ka0fan]

Another great small woodcarving supplier is Mountain Woodcarvers. Very nice folks and great customer service.
Have A Great Day
Terry

[frankjay02]

thanks folks, I appreciate all your help and advice. Making a decision as a newbie is tough because we know so litle but the people on these forums are a huge help
Frank in NJ