Tool advice

I would appreciate some more advice, this time on tools meant to be struck with a mallet. First, the mallet, I thought that would be the easiest part, then I saw they come in different weights, let alone styles.
I carve small pieces (probably a foot and under) so I know I don't need a huge one. What I want is a way to remove the waste wood after bandsawing, get my pieces down so there isn't so much wood to remove with my knife and palm tools. (Twelve therapy sessions have taught me what tendinitis in the thumbs is all about!!!)
Second, I have received a catalog from 'Wood Carvers Supply, Inc' they carry 'Lamp' brand carving tools, any opinions on them? Or a brand that is preferable? Pfeil is another I have have been looking at, from Woodcraft.
Third, what about diamond rifflers (I know, that's not for the waste wood, but as long as I'm sending an order in!). I carved a bear and had a fun time getting in under his belly, had the bright idea to carve him on the base. Are rifflers good tools to have for that purpose.
I have received such good advice from you all before, (I love my Lyons and Denny's knives and tools!) and appreciate any help you can give on this subject. Thanks! Callynne

[Captain_Bandaid]

Well, I never miss an opportunity to wax philosophical on the subject of tools. I get the same catalog and I would think most German made tools would be excellent. My personal preference is for pfiel since they come RAZOR sharp and tend to stay that way with minimal stropping. The comment in the catalog regarding the Lamp tools needing honing and stropping suggests you should plan on several hours of stone and strop work before you make chips. I own 16 of the intermediate sized pfiel tools and all of the palm tools. I carve about the same sized stuff you do and I have used my palm tools much more than the mallet tools. As for diamond rifflers, buy'em. I have two sets and use them all the time. Have fun!