Ron Wells sold business. Quality now?

cseymour · #11 01-15-2008, 10:48 AM

HI Keith,
I have the long blade (2 1/4") and the short blade (1 3/4"). At this point I don't really have a preference, I use them both.

Mike and his wife are very easy to deal with. I couldn't believe how quickly I received the knives (especially since it was around the holidays).

Again, I can't say enough about these knives.

.

Chris

Donald K. Mertz · #12 01-15-2008, 11:23 AM

As a knifeaholic, my suggestion is to buy one of each knife one comes across for they are all good for various aspects of whittling and carving. While I prefer reshaping and sharpening old pocket knives rescued over the years at flea markets and antique stores, yet I still like the "store bought" knives and custom made knives. Ron Wells/Mike Shipley are excellent knives, just as are the Denny knife,Helvie knife, Lee Ferguson knife, Bud Murray knife, Lyons Knife, Ralph Long knife, Butz knife (from Woodcraft), Dunkle knife, Warren knife, Dastra knife, knives made from straight razors and even Lynn Doughty's "Old Reliable" (box cutter utility knife). The key is to try different knives, learn by practice how to sharpen and strop a knife and then learn to "slice with the cutting edge" rather than forcing a wedge and crow bar prying cut. Then one's favorite knife among all that one possess will be the one you are using at the time, for they are all good but it all boills down to personal preference. And there is no truth in the saying, "My kinife is better than yours." For more on the subject, check out my Blog, Thanks.

Keithmc · #13 01-15-2008, 05:03 PM

Donald,
Just checked out your web site. Wow! I love your set up. And there is a lot of very good information in your blogs. Thanks
Keithmc

PeteM · #14 01-15-2008, 05:16 PM

I think my carving has improved since I got some Lee Ferguson knives, as the blades and handle both work for me. I ordered a couple more, and asked Lee if he could put a flat ground bevel on them before sending, and I'm really looking forward to receiving them.

I ordered a Ron Wells but got sent another Denny by mistake!

I found I could only really gauge the comfort of a handle after about 2 hours use, so would also suggest buying a couple of different makers 1 1/2" knives.

Pete