Jump to content

Recommended Posts

  • Members
Posted

So I have begun attempting to learn sheridan style carving. Out of the gate, I've realized this is fairly ambitious, but I'll keep working at it to get it down.

 

That being said, I have just been using a Tandy craftool swivel knife, which I am realizing may be causing some definite problems. I am wondering if I were to upgrade my swivel knife, what brand to purchase? I have heard good things about the Barry King knife, along with the Leather Wranglers knife, however I can't afford the $150 price tag (at least not yet!)

 

What swivel knife upgrade would you recommend?

  • Replies 22
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

  • Moderator
Posted

Bob Beard or Henley, none any better for me, but you really need to go to a show and try them, some come with a ton of BS so just block that out if you can.  Swivel knives are very very personal, once you find your lover, nothing else will do.  Some use different shafts on the blades.  Blades can be personal too.  Beard knives, Beard blades for me, but go with what works for you.

Art

For heaven's sakes pilgrim, make yourself a strop!

  • Members
Posted

I have the 3/8 and 1/2 Crafttool Pro swivel knives and they are both very, very nice. Haven't tried any of the expensive boutique knives though

  • Members
Posted

You can spend money on the top of the line swivel knives, but what really matters is making sure the blade is sharp.  I've had craftool from the starter set and it sucked.  I upgraded to a Barry King knife and it was night an day.  So much smoother and well worth it.  Now I've switch to Leather Wranglers and I'm very pleased.  My next new knife is going to be a Clay Miller that I hope to get this weekend when i visit his shop.   Use what is comfortable to you.  Size of the barrel and blade.  My LW has a 3/8 barrel but I have very large hands and a lot of cutting I get cramped.  Hopefully Clay will have a 1/2 inch in stock and I can try that. 

I would recommend Barry King to upgrade first!  Good luck

  • Members
Posted

Its really a benefit to listen as other seriously experienced members here share their tips.

Hi, I'm new also and going to be trying my hand at carving, welcome any tips you find along the way. 

I ask a few of the same questions recently and have confirmed:

1. If it will fit securely, a great blade will make an award winning cut much smoother and quicker, also maybe use in many swivels.

2. If you have regularly used a size anything as the "barrel" and like it try that first, my case ( I used a snap-on 3/8 extension  knurled for 34 years day in day out and its 1/2" ) my plain ole reason to start there.

3. I have a few separate purchases to start the appreciation sharing with the tool builders like a swivel knife, a maul and a few stamps. Just looking ahead to the fun

Good day

Floyd

  • 4 months later...
Posted
 

If you keep the blade sharp, what's the difference between a $30 Craftool and a $150 Wrangler?

 

The primary difference is that better steel can be sharpened to a better edge and will hold that better edge longer.  Any knife will cut, a great knife will cut better, cleaner, smoother.  

Think of of it like music.  A K-Mart guitar plays music, a Gibson guitar plays music better.  But yes, they both work.

 

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


×
×
  • Create New...