[Mischief]

I can vouch for Heineckie wood too. Did my first piece on Wood bought from Pearl Paint. One of those packs u buy that has different block sizes. Little did I know it was also different textures in each block. Some very dry and brittle and some hard. I can see the difference in carving with the Heinecke wood. Almost a bit waxy/oily that the chips shave off without breaking into wood dust. ( my husband will be happy with that). Using same tools but definately feels better. No cracking or chipping.
Cass
My two cents worth. And in this economy....what does it get anyone?

[bulldog]

I'll have to agree with the rest,,strop,strop, and then strop some more. The blade can't be to sharp, just don't roll the blade at the end of the stroke or you'll creat more problems. My hands are very large and have some stiffness in them from years of work, I use an old bowling glove, it seems to help at putting more power and control to the knife and have less wrist problems. It works for me.
KEEP BARKIN