Ramelson tools

[ptofimpact]

Anyone have experience or opinion on a inexpensive Carving set from U. J Ramelson. Considering getting a set to try some low relief carving. Thanks

[carver33]

I've owned a set of Ramelson gouges for around 25 years, and am extremely happy with them. The only thing that I noticed on a new set is that the edge wasn't as finished as I remember on earlier sets. That being said, with the proper sharpening, they should be just fine.

[rsting]

I've got some of them, and they seem to be pretty good quality. They'll take an edge, and keep it pretty good. One warning though, if you get a set, buy them from someone who sharpens them first, like Rick at little shavers. I got mine at woodcraft, and the factory edge is not great. It took me forever to get them in shape and cutting right. One v-tool had a big nick in it, and I never have got it riight. Probably just need to send it to Rick. Have you looked at the flexcut sets? The ones with the interchangable blades are comparable in price, and they come ready to carve. The Ramelsons are good chisels though, just get em sharp.
Russ

[Dan S]

I'll agree with the other guys. The edges on the new ones are pretty poor. The blades seem to be getting thicker as well. Quality is definitely slipping but still decent for the price. Have a look over on Ebay and see if they have anything used for sale. Perhaps someone has already addressed the problem for you...
I got rid of mine and went to Phiel a while back. Much better quality.

Good luck,
Dan

[Kadiddle]

I do not have this type, however some club members do. Seems that there is some quality issues with some. Many are #1, not even close to being ready for stropping,#2 are not even on the cutting edge. Like many carving tools they should need to be stropped at the time of purchase, but not have to be properly profiled from the beginning. This is a challenge for new carvers as well as someone who knows how they should be. If they come from a place that presharpens them, they should be fine as you will know what they should look like and be able to maintain them. Their factory edge is not a good starting point. Good luck.
Carve On,
Kadiddle

[ptofimpact]

Thank you all, again great advice and opinions, much appreciated.

Pete in NC

[Lazy Carver]

Barring the sharpening and stropping issues, the price is excellent as for what you're getting. They are located in New Jersey.

[Spalted Carver]

I have a large quantity of Ramelson palm tools as well as their larger tools (6" w/ stubby handles) mine are all older vintage & I really like them.

One thing though, if you aren't good at sharpening or buffing to "maintain" an edge you might want to consider spending a little more & getting either the palm chisels from Pfeil or the wonderful Drake chisels (My current favorite). Or of course like mentioned above, getting the Ramelson's tuned up from Rick.

In the end though, regardless of what types you get, putting effort into learning how to sharpen & mostly "buffing" for maintaining the edge will make your carving experience much more enjoyable.

PS
I'd also recommend not purchasing a "set" of tools, rather pick out ones you feel will be best suited to the carving you will be doing. I am aware that this is a standard thought on tool purchases, but really can't be stressed enough :-)

Best of luck!

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Like Russ said, for the same money you can get Flexcut, which come sharp and ready to carve. (IMHO) My favorites are Drake Knives.com