Tool Advice Needed......

[ghaugen]

Hello. First of all, I'm new and trying to clarify and get advice on tool purchases. I have a list of tools that have been suggested for my areas of interest (which is rather broad-wood spirits, ornaments, etc. Gargac's and Cipa's work has been very inspiring.) I'm thinking about Flexcut's "Power" handle tools over the palm tools since they could be used for larger work with a mallet or smaller work and held with one hand since there handle isn't long or short-but in the middle. The Flexcut Power handles are also the closest to Pfeil's standard handle size. Does that make sense or should I just get the palm tools for smaller work and another set for larger work?

I'm also looking at Flexcut or Pfeil tools since they are the most readily available. Any advice about either company?

Thanks in advance for the help.

Greg

[Anthony Filetti]

My two cents...

Go with Pfeil if you can afford it. I would also suggest you contact Rick at Little Shavers for his advice as well (especially for a beginner). He is an outstanding resource and spends much of his time sharpening a wide variety of tools so his knowledge is based on a much greater experience than most.

Hope this helps.

[Dylan]

Check out Pfeil's intermediate tool size. That's what I use, they are short enough that I can use them on small carvings that I hold. And they are made to be used with a mallet. I'm not sure how the Flexcut would hold up to mallet use.

Dylan

[btree50]

Go with Pfeil, I love them!

[dany meullins]

Flexcut tools are excellent, but you may only use them with a very light mallet (300 g) - so, it is not really mallet work. But they are excellent with a reciprocating machine (foredom, skill, bosch, bordet)...

[davidinsarasota]

For roughing in, this is a good one:
Buy PFEIL "Swiss Made" 12mm, Gouge, Fishtail, #5 Sweep at Woodcraft.com

For detail work, this is useful:
Buy 3mm Width Micro Carving Tool Set at Woodcraft.com

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Pfeil is a great tool, but you might also want to take a look at Welcome to Drake Knives.com (knives and palm tools) , Rick at Little Shavers Wood Carving Supply

Dave

[Bill102M]

Pfeil's are great tools, as well as many other European tools. It is very difficult to recommend what tools you should buy, as it depends on what you are carving. I was told along time ago that you can make a small cut with a large tool, but you can't make a large cut with a small one. I carve quite large pieces only and as a result I use large tools, for the most part. I have a set of Henry Taylors which are very large and heavy for roughing out. I use Flex Cut Mallet size tools for most of my work, and I am very satisfied with their results. I have a full set of the Flex Cut Power Handle tools and use them regularly with a 20 oz quiet mallet with no ill affect to the tools. Overall, start carving and purchase a couple of tools you need to finish the project and see how you like them. It is mostly personal preference. I have seen some fabulous carvings done with nothing more than a pocket knife and a 1" chisel. I personally believe you can't have too many tools, but that is just me. Carve and enjoy!