Need a strap cutter- where to start?

[CaptQuirk]

I've looked through posts, and found most folks saying that Tandy is no longer a decent choice. Lots of folks swear by their plow gauges, but just glancing at the prices gave me a pucker that won't be going away soon. So, where do I start? Osborne? Something else? Be gentle on my wallet

[Troy I]

Go to Bruce Johnson's Web site...he is a member here and has quit a few for sale.  

To find his site Google Bruce Johnson tools.

Edited August 31, 2016 by Troy I

[CaptQuirk]

I was actually at his site, and found the prices a bit high for my level, even the $100 ones. Actually, it was the top of the line plow gauges on his site that dropped my jaw. I'm not sure I'll ever reach that level.

[MADMAX22]

The wood ones with the razor blade in them will do alright and are cheap. Just gotta buy blades. A strop on the blade will make them last longer. I used mine for a while before I bought one of the brass and steel draw gauges. Those are nicer but you have to be good at sharpening and they are pricier. They are not as easy/nice as the plow  gauges which are the nicest/easiest IMHO but also the priciest as you found out. 

The wood ones can serve you well and they last for a while. 

Just be careful as with any of the draw gauges are a little dangerous since the blade is just sitting out there on the bar. 

[Troy I]

42 minutes ago, CaptQuirk said:

I was actually at his site, and found the prices a bit high for my level, even the $100 ones. Actually, it was the top of the line plow gauges on his site that dropped my jaw. I'm not sure I'll ever reach that level.

Bruce has some older Osborne for around $45 or so...that is the type I got from him...works great and comes with a razor sharp blade...that only needs stroping from time to time to keep it sharp.  

If you want a plough guage..you are talking big bucks.

[CaptQuirk]

Ok. So you say Osborne is the best way to go, as far as entry level? So many sites, with so many different cutters. I see the "Original Strap Cutter", which looks like the Tandy, which looks just like another one with no name. It is so confusing for a beginner.

[CaptQuirk]

44 minutes ago, MADMAX22 said:

Just be careful as with any of the draw gauges are a little dangerous since the blade is just sitting out there on the bar. 

That just means fewer fingers to stab with the awl, right? Which of the wood ones would recommend/ not recommend?

[CaptQuirk]

What is the difference between Harrison marked bars, and the Newark marked bars?

[MADMAX22]

23 minutes ago, CaptQuirk said:

That just means fewer fingers to stab with the awl, right? Which of the wood ones would recommend/ not recommend?

Oh I dont know. Imagine they are all pretty close. Heck ya could even make one if you have a few tools. I havent had one in several years. 

[Troy I]

14 minutes ago, CaptQuirk said:

What is the difference between Harrison marked bars, and the Newark marked bars?

I don't know...it might be where they were made...shoot Bruce a PM, I'm sure he will be able to tell you...when I bought mine, he just picked one out and sent it to me.

If you get one from him, be careful..I cut myself the first time I used it...real deep cut on the pad of my thumb and did not feel it until I saw all the blood on the leather and bench.