Ron Wells Knife

[Robert Cahill]

I am suppose to get a Ron Wells knife (Shipley) as a gift soon and was wondering if the larger 2 1/4 or the 1 3/4 blade is best for flat plane type carving. I was told to pick the one I wanted.

[BobT]

I have a couple of the original Wells, 1 1/8. I love them for flat plane. My opinion is that the shorter one would do best.
BobT

[Iowa Carver]

Any of the Wells/Shipley's knives will work for flat plane. It's a matter of if you like a long heavier knife or a shorter knife. My favorites are the 1 3/8 detail knife and the 1 3/4 rough out knife. I also like the new 1 3/4 blades that mike is making. I know many many guys that use the 2 1/4 blade. I myself can't get used to a knife that long but I think it's the most popular knife at our club.

Corey

[Robert Cahill]

Thanks for the response. I am starting to do the flat plane style carvings. I don't care to much for a long blade so will go for a shorter one if they will do the job.
Bob, I have been fortunate to see one of your carving first hand and greatly value your opinion.

[BobT]

Well Robert, I have some of your carvings setting on a shelf over my carving bench and admire them every day. Whatever you used was working just fine.
Bob

[Dan S]

tell them you can't decide and ask for both! The worst they can say is no...

Dan

[Bill Anderson]

I would go for the 1 3/4 myself. I cant carve if it is too long,or I shoud say I end up carving myself...

[Robert Cahill]

Dan a good idea but knowing them I would end up with two paring kniives and a Yam.
Bill I think a shorter knife would be better also

[Nomad]

I have the 1 3/4" knife and it seems plenty big to me but I'm new to this flat plane carving, so you can take what I say with a grain of salt.

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

I just got the new style 2" directly from Mike, the knife cuts great. I usually don't use a blade any longer then 1 3/4 " but this one is fine. Only complaint is that the blade is not in the center of the handle, looks very unprofessional !
Dave