Suggestion for tools ....

[C. McCoy]

I'm getting back into carving and just bought 2 knives from Rick from Little Shavers and a protective glove.

I would like to purchase some more tools. I want to carve Holiday stuff (santas, snowmen, etc.), eggheads, caricatures, whatever catches my eye.

I am looking at the following tools:

1/4" 60 degree v-parting tool
3/16" 60 degree v-parting tool
5/16" Gouge
3/8" #3 Gouge
3/4" #3 Gouge
5/8" #5 Gouge
3/8" #5 Gouge
1/4" #9 Gouge

And maybe a set of Dockyard Micro Gouge Set

Will these cover just about any style of carving at this time?

What brand(s) would you suggest I consider for these tools?

Thanks.

[pallin]

My personal recommendation would be Pfeil Swiss-made tools. Each of the tools you listed would set you back about $22. I think the Intermediate sizes would be fine for what you propose to carve, but no set of eight tools are sufficient for ALL types of carving. Woodcraft.com is the exclusive distributor for Pfeil tools in the U.S.

[Plain_Ol_Ed]

Any quality brand of tool will be just fine. If your not up to snuff on sharpening, make sure you buy them presharpened. Littleshavers is as good a place as any to start. I think maybe you've got a few more listed than you'll need, but, never enough. I'm certainly not one to be talking about too many tools. The reason I don't specify a particular brand is that you'll get plenty of that from other folks. Everybody seems to think that whatever they have is best. I use an assortment of brands so really don't have a preference. You might try buying one each of several brands before deciding which brand you prefer.

[chuckbolton]

i agree with pallin--i have numerous palm tools and wish i had more of the intermediate sized swiss made tools-- i plan to fill out my set with swiss made -- a full set of #11 gouges, 25-8 gouge. i have probably 30 other hand tools and i find im using the swiss made more and more-- the palm tools recieving less use-- i like the size of the intermidiate tools- they will last longer as there is more metal in them and seem to stay sharp longer. good luck in your search

[Plain_Ol_Ed]

[QUOTE intermediate sized ][/QUOTE]

You said you were planning on carving egg heads. If so, I'd try a single intermediate sized tool before buying a bunch of them.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I would like to have a set of the dockyard micros myself ....hummm maybe I will advertize for a trade of some kind? lol

[markken5889]

Hi C -

I'd recommend the Dockyard set, and I also agree with Pallin about the Pfeil's.

-Mark