OK, I’d like to get some feedback from some folks who actually hold a carving tool in their hands every now and then.
Which brand do you like and why? I realize there are more out there than just Pfeil and Henry Taylor, but they’re the example of what level of tool I’m talking about here.
Why do you like that particular tool?
Does the brand’s particular size/shape chart influence your decision (i.e. Sheffield vs. metric vs. Pfeil’s scale, etc)?
Replies
I much prefer the way the Pfeil brand feels in my hand. They are lighter, seem to have better balance, and just a more refined feel overall. While I don't own any of the Henry Taylor tools, and therefore can't compare the steel quality, the Pfeil brand hold a edge very well. As far as the sweep is concerned, I don't really go by the number, but by the look, so this wasn't an issue in my choice.
Rob Millard
Kevin,
I have Pfeil, Hirsch and Stubai, and prefer the Pfeil. They all have good quality steel, but the Pfeil handles are tapered both ways: fat in the middle, tapering slightly to the ends. Makes a more comfortable grip. Also, I believe the Taylor handles are round while the others I mentioned are octagonal, if that makes any difference.
You may know this but you can get Pfeil tools at quite a reduced price from a Canadian distributor, woodcarvingbiz.com. Rick is the owner, is good to deal with and reliable.
Gary
KevinLBS,
I don't own any but I was over at Woodcarft before a Taylor sale and they were re-grinding all the carving tools...saying all the new ones they had were poorly made...
I have 40 or so Taylors. I like them a lot. My only complaint is in how they size the handles according to the size of the blade. The 1" gouges have pretty heft handles.
Steel takes and holds a superfine edge. No problems in any way thus far.
Don't have any Pfiels, so I can't compare, but have only heard good things about them.
The older I get, the better I was....
Hi Kevin,
I own mostly Pfeil's with a Henry Taylor, Stubai and a few Two Cherries thrown in. By far I like the feel of the Pfeils, plus they are the tool that comes out of the package the closest with a useable edge (ok so they don't have the inner microbezel out of the package). The Henry Taylor was the next best fit for my hand, the Two Cherries and Stubai tied for last place.
As another poster suggested, I you like Pfeil tools, the source in Canada is much less costly than the US distributor.
The Ashley Iles are suppost to be very good carving tools, but I don't own any
Gentlemen-
Thanks very much for your replies. They were extremely helpful! Thanks especially to Gary for the tip on the Canadian distributor. I'll be ordering my first few Pfeil tools this week. Maybe some of Rob's goodness will rub off on me if I use the same tools :)
Much thanks,
Kevin
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