Japanese Craving Tools The Best

[schooner]

Hi Guys

A friend of mine told me that Japanese Craving Tools are one the best you can buy.

And to make sure they're graded as far as the steel is concerned.

IS THAT TRUE ?

Thanks Guys
GOD BLESS

[Mitchell]

I've used a Japanese carving tool one time and was not overly impressed with it.


I'm not sure what you mean by "they're graded as far as the steel is concerned."

[squbrigg]

I have several Japanese tools and still prefeer my Pfeil tools to them. I find them brittle and have several with chipped blades waiting to be resharpened. They have a keen edge, but for some reason, they chip easily. I don't find them worth the money. The shape of the gouges is also a problem, perhaps it is just the ones I have, but I'm not happy with them.
Bob

[schooner]

Originally Posted by Mitchell

I've used a Japanese carving tool one time and was not overly impressed with it.


I'm not sure what you mean by "they're graded as far as the steel is concerned."

Well, my buddy said; " . . . if the steel is not graded like, the quaility or so."

So, tell me my good man, what in your opinion are one of the Best Craving Knives, Gouges, etc. is to buy

I so new I don't even have Basswood YET. I have a project in mind. As of yet I'm just surfing around on this Great Forum and getting some knowledge from NICE GUYS LIKE - U .

THANK 4 YOUR IMPUTE

[Mitchell]

My personal best (favorite) is Pfiel. I have an older set, and I believe they may have changed manufacturing locations, but many here will confirm that they are very good tools. They are ready to use out of the box - even though I have knocked the bevel down a bit on my set.

I also use Henry Taylor gouges as I was able to get a larger selection of sizes with this set. I would not, however, recommend them for beginners as they needed to be "tweaked" and sharpened before use.

Ramelson makes acceptable tools at a reasonable price, but I'd recommend buying them off the shelf instead of ordering as sometimes you will get a tool that is not quite made correctly (ground off center, for example). They also generally need a little tuning before use.

Other good companies are Drake and Cape Forge. Denny has increased their selection of sizes and I generally like their tools - although I only have a few.
Drake Product 2
Welcome to Cape Forge!

Found a list of multiple suppliers: Tools

It's hard to recommend because what works for one may not work for another.

I would suggest that you do not buy a set, but instead get a few gouges, learn to use them and then buy what you may want/need as you increase your carving skills. It'll save you in the long run.

I was questioning the "grade" as most steel is graded by hardness (Rockwell). The softer (58 or so as an example) are easier to sharpen, but dull quicker. Harder steel (>62) holds an edge longer, but is harder to sharpen and is generally more brittle. This is important to know as brittle tools will break easier - especially on v-tools or on detail knives.

[Mitchell]

Other threads on similar topic:

Tools Recommendations?

What are the best tools for a beginner?

Online Buys, and Starting Tools Sets

Newbie ?????

(Just knives) Knives - need recommendations

[schooner]

Hi Guys

I like to THANK ~ MITCHELL & SQUBRIGG - 4 - HELPLING ME find my way thru the maze Head Bangeof craving tools.

Now I see so well how GREAT this forum is due to guys like yourselves.

I will definetly follow your suggestions.

THANKS GUYS Happy

GOD BLESS

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

I have different brand tools but I am starting to favor Drake, good price, good quality, fast delivery, no complaints.

Dave

[Dan S]

I'll throw in my two bits. I use a number of japanese tools and I wouldn't trade them for any of the Pfeil tools. This is not to say that I don't like Pfeil, I have several of their palm tools as well as full size gouges. But the japanese tools fit my hand like they were made for me and take, and hold, an incredible edge. I love the weight and balance of these tools.
As far as steel goes you will hear the terms blue and white steel. The terms come from the color of paper that the steel came wrapped in. There is no visible difference in the color of the metal. The metals have different alloys and different properties. To me the steel is less important than the maker. A poor smith can make junk tools from the finest steel. If you go to www.japanwoodworker.com they have more information on this topic.
The downsides to Japanese tools are that they cost 2 to 3 times as much (or more) as a pfeil gouge. Also, they are limited in the types of gouges produced. For unusual types I buy Pfeil. I have chipped an edge or two but I have done as much with my pfeil tools. It generally happens when I hit a hard knot that I wasn't expecting while using a mallet.
If you want to try these tools try one from the Japan Woodworker. I buy the ones with the pear shaped handles. If I was going to buy just one it would be the 3/8" V gouge or another bullnose chisel. If you are in the San Francisco area drop by their shop and try them out before you spend the money.
Be warned though, I started with just one and now own 25 or so...Your wallet will not like you!

Dan

[slomo]

I wouldn't buy any expensive tools when getting started .Iwould buy a carving knife ,and learn to sharpen it .then go from there.