I am finally going to take the plunge and buy my first carving tools. My objective is to be able to do some simple shells/fans and work up to ball and claw feet.
I am a firm believer in my Dad's favorite saying "buy the best tools you can afford and you'll never be disappointed", however that isn't my wife's favorite saying and I am on a budget. I am trying to decide between the Swiss made Pfiel and the Hirsch carving tools from Lee Valley, but am open to any other options.
I'm not really concerned about which come already sharpened, because I figure I'm going to have to learn how to get them really sharp anyway.
From what I can tell, it seems like the Hirsch tools are slightly less expensive -- maybe around $5 less per gouge etc. I would appreciate any feedback or perspective about different brands of carving tools and these two in particular - whether there is any appreciable difference in how they work, the edge they take etc.
Thanks in advance!
All the best, Mike