Markwell Report post Posted July 31, 2016 Hey guys! Just wondering which companies and tool makers would you recommend. I need to get a general feeling about what is worth the price and what is not. Mark Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Boriqua Report post Posted July 31, 2016 I think it is going to depend on what specific tools you are looking for. I know I am in high love with siewa awls and chisels but haven't tried some of thier other stuff. I use generic tools for cutting and skiving. What is it you are needing? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Colt W Knight Report post Posted July 31, 2016 Barry king Bob beard Clay miller I like craft tool pro stuff too Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JerryLevine Report post Posted August 1, 2016 Sadly, Joseph Dixon, the English saddlers' tool maker, folded last year, so depending on what you want, you might want to try the following European tool sources: http://www.vergez-blanchard.fr/boutique/liste_familles.cfm?num=2&code_lg=lg_fr especially for punches, pricking irons, knives of all types, compasses, etc http://www.cuirtextilecrea.com especially for awls. Vergez-Blanchard is expensive, but as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for, and their tools will last a lifetime. Beware false economy: buy cheap, buy twice! I would absolutely support the opinions above for USA tool suppliers and add the the following: http://www.ranch2arena.com/hsbtintro.html especially for punches/chisels And for sewing awls, try Douglas Tools 46-S Wakely Road, Sheridan, WY 82801 Phone: 307-737-2222 Bob Douglas email I hope that helps: good luck with your search. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
zuludog Report post Posted August 1, 2016 (edited) Whatever tools you get, remember to keep them as sharp as you can. Be willing to invest time & money in sharpening equipment; learning how to use it; and actually using it! That means oil; water/ceramic; or diamond stones, whichever you fancy. Follow this with a strop. They're easy & cheap enough to make yourself, and it is satisfying to use something you've made yourself. Could be your first leather project? For a long time I used general purpose oil on my oilstones, and Autosol chrome polish as a stropping medium. Recently I changed to specific honing oil and honing compound. The results were better for both There are lots of videos on YouTube about sharpening; making & using a strop, and so on. Also sections in this Forum. Watch & read as many as you can. As you have said, you will then start to see what, how, & why things are done, and get an idea of which you would fancy Edited August 1, 2016 by zuludog Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
