A few questions for the experts.

[Polo_Playa]

Hi all, I am new to these threads, and relitivly new to woodcarving. I have done about six relief carvings, and 3 figurines, all of which have been pretty basic.

I am now looking to do something a little more challenging, and i was wondering if i could get some pointers from some experienced carvers.

I have an okay set of chisels, but i am in need of some more detailed chisels for my more detailed carving. I was wondeing if some of you guys could help me in finding a good set of chisels that wouldn't cost a whole lot of money, but still do a decent job. As in what brand, ect. I really only need small chisels, as well as round and maybe some gouges.

Also, what are some good woods for detailed carving, particulary wildlife. I have used basswood in the past, and while easy to carve on, I am looking for something perhaps a little harder.

Thanks for all the help, sorry I wrote so much. hahah.

[Colin-Partridge]

Pfeil tools are your best bet swiss made will last you a life time. Dont bother with cheap tools not worth your while. Cheap tools wont hold an edge and will only frustrate you. Invest in few good tools and you wont be sorry. Pfeil tools in Canada now are a good buy especially with the exchange on the dollar.
Colin

[CarverFromNoWhere]

From what you have wrote I will suggest Flexcut first them Pfeil since Pfeil are more expensive. Both brands hold their resale value very well if you decide you don't like them later on. I have always used Flexcut and just bought my first Pfeils recently and have to say the Flexcut out of the box are sharper with a nicer edge that is easier to take care of then the Pfeils. Good luck and welcome to the board.
Carl

[cannuckcarver]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

[Ron T]

Hello and welcome, Polo Playa. It's nice to have you here with us.

[mark yundt]

Well I'm died in the wool. If you plan on getting serious,,even on a hobby level,,go with the Pfeil as others have suggested. You can't go wrong in the long run.

[Al_Hillis]

Welcome to the board poloplaya , I agree with Mark and Colin go for the Pfei's worth it in the long runl

[squbrigg]

You use the two opposing words in your question! How do we answer?

"Good" ... tools aren't cheap.

"Tools for not too much money" ..... aren't usually good tools.

I would suggest purchasing the best tools you can afford, and just purchase the one's you need to begin. Perhaps a small selection of Pfeil tools to start? You can do wonders with just half a dozen good tools.

Bob

[Polo_Playa]

Thank you all for the info, it has helped me out a lot.

I greatly appreciate it.

[MelNM]

No doubt Pfiel are great tools, but like anything else there are a lot of woodcarving tool manufactures. I have a couple of Pfiel gouges, but when it comes to detailing, specially the small stuff I fall back on the DockYard gouges, these are very tine gouges, that I have used and also serveral of the pros do also.
Mel