What is the best tool to cut 9 oz. leather?

[Old Navy]

I am having trouble cutting thick leather.Could someone tell me what they use?Thanks,Navy

[TwinOaks]

It really depends on what kind of cut you're trying to make. If you're trying to cut out a particular, repeatable pattern...i.e. holster pieces, then a clicker (basically a cookie cutter) is the way to go. If it's just general cutting, well, a head knife or round knife is the answer. Head/round knives (and even rein knives for those familiar with them) have a curved blade which gives a really long cutting edge that makes cutting thick leather easier. The trick is to have whatever blade you use INCREDIBLY SHARP. Razor sharp is just a good start. There's a few threads on sharpening blades, and I'm pretty sure every one of them mention stropping. You should give a blade a quick stropping before cutting, and at any time the leather 'grabs' at the blade. Learn to use a head knife and you'll likely stick with it. Even if you're using a plain ol' razor knife, exacto type blade, or an 'olfa' knife, strop, strop, strop. You'll be amazed at how dull "razor" sharp is.

[Leerwerker]

Ask you local Tandy store manager to demo the new Damascus blades for you - they come pre-sharpened - super sharp! they really are the tool for the leathercrafter who already had everything (before these came on the scene....)

[Colter]

i usually lay my pattern(a Gun Holster/Knife pouch that sort) on the fleshy/rough side of the leather, make the outline, use a spray bottle to soak the lines i need to cut out, Then use a Box cutter Knife(Those that retract/change blades), and use a fresh Blade at the start. Works very well for me.

Edited November 20, 2009 by Thalaskaru

[hidepounder]

I use a head knife to cut 99% of everything I do. It is also what I use to skive everything I do so in my opinion it is the ultimate leather cutting tool. There is definitely a learning curve related to using and sharpening, however.

Hope this helps...

Bobby

[Old Navy]

Thanks Ladies and Gents.I will use all of the sugestions.I ordered a headknife yesterday from Sheffields of england.I didnt get stainless,but it should be ok.I got a osborn leather cutter from e bay.Can I sharpen the blade on it?I wanted a pricker,but they are priced to high.Does anyone know of a supplier for one at a lower cost?navy

[jbird]

skiver round knife as I call it,

but its really more than one tool its more you must learn too sharpen thats the key to success.