Ron asks about handles...

On 26 Aug 2014, at 17:02, Ron Harper wrote:

> Have quite a few very old Buck Bros and Chas Buck chisels. A hodge podge of
> handles. Turning a uniform set of handles is on my to do list. I love curly
> maple and have quite a bit of it. Anybody use it for chisels?  Comments?


What do you use them for, fist off - if you intend pounding on them with a
mallet, then use the traditional, interlocked grain timbers.  Ash, or hickory or
hornbeam.

If you are using them for paring, hand held or with mild persuasion from a small
malet, then use what you like.



Then - what are they - carving tools you may want to be distinguished by touch,
so your eyes stay on the work, and you reach for the chisel, knowing which you
have by its feel. Or if you have to glance, the colour and shape tells you at
once.

I have a set of Pfeil carving gouges, handles all identical, apart from the
markings.  As you work, you have to look at the working end to decide which is
which, or read the marking.

Traditionally of course, carving tools are placed into the roll handle first, so
the sharp ends are out and you can see which is which.


So the answer is - do what you want! 


Enjoy! 



Richard Wilson
Yorkshireman Galoot
in Northumberland