Pocket knife for carving

[hobnob]

Greetings everyone. Just joined the forum and I'm interested in more serious whittling. Bought the" Little Book of Whittling" by Chris Lubkemann today at Woodcraft. He uses a Swiss Army Tinker Model for all the projects in the book, and says he has been using it exclusively for several years. I wanted feedback from folks that have been in it awhile. Are pocket knives a viable option?

I would prefer not to use power tools. I'm flexible and would consider a set of Flexcut Knives. Any thoughts?

[pallin]

I have used a pocket knife for whittling with some success. You may need to reshape the blades for what you are carving. You still have to learn to sharpen properly. The main drawback is safety - most pocket knives have a tendency to fold up when used at unusual angles. Another is comfort - many pocket knives are not designed to fit the hand for long periods of carving. I find that some modern pocket knives, especially those with stainless steel blades, do not hold an edge well (stay sharp). You CAN make it work, but be careful!

[TreeWizard]

The "oar carver" may be a good fit for you. It can be bought with 1 or 2 blades and for a few extra bucks most catalog places will sharpen it to carving quality for you.

I have a "Swiss army" knife but I can't get it to hold a carving edge for long.

[Lazy Carver]

Weigh out the prices, and if you can try them out, hey!... better for you! Flexcut has a new carvin knife, aside from the 'Carvin Jack' and the 'Pocket Jack'. I believe its called the 'Whittlin' Jack'...
Good luck with that!
Sincerely, Rob Vega (Lazy)

[twymanok]

I read numerous reviews on the carving jack and they all complain about the difficulty of opening the blades but as typical flexcut it is sharp as all get out and holds an edge pretty good. I use a Case Whittling knife.

[richipper]

I broke out Chris's "Twigs and Branches" book and he mentions that fixed blades work just as well. Just that the folder is easier to carry in your pocket. I have a good selection of fixed and two of the Flexcut folders. Handle comfort is definitely something to consider. The whittling jack is not as bulky and has two blades. It was sharp when I got it but I did rework it a bit. Not necessary but I like it.Richard in CO

[Mitchell]

LOTS of old threads on pocket knives for carving....

Here's an older one: Pocket knife for carving

Couple more: Pocket knife & carving, and pocket carving/whittling knife?

[Big Barn]

If you like 'pocket knives' for whittling, take a look at: Kershaw® Double Duty Classic Liner Lock Folder (for under $60)
The blades are a bit long for my taste, but can easily be modified. Plus, both blades lock. There is also the Rough Rider Whittlin Buddy with much shorter blades & a LOT less expensive. However, I would recommend you physically handle any knife prior to purchase.</I>

[Wb7whi]

Originally Posted by twymanok

I read numerous reviews on the carving jack and they all complain about the difficulty of opening the blades but as typical flexcut it is sharp as all get out and holds an edge pretty good. I use a Case Whittling knife.

Not everyone complains. I don't have a problem with the knife. That, a stick, and a glove and my very fine folding chair are all I need to keep myself busy at the dog park. I carve, they run works out well.

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

The new Flexcut Whittlin' Jack is not bad! It fits well in my hand, I wish the smaller blade was smaller, I might work on that. Woodcraft had it on sale for $40.00, have seen it for under $50.00 when not on sale.

Dave