I've been cleared by the Doc to go back to work this coming Monday, just in time to pick up an initial line (training a pilot who has likely never seen a 604 to go forth and fly as pilot in command before learning how to open and close the door). It is a hard week of leaning between the seats and almost total concentration trying to insure they know enough to be safe and almost as important pass the flight check.
Clearing me for work also means clearing me back to the shop without MsBubba's evil eye. I picked up some 8/4 Alder for the new dining room table today but first I will finish the small box started the other day.
While working on the box I thought about the difference between Japanese striking chisels and Western bench chisels as I was using both. There is no better chisel for use with a hammer/mallet than a Japanese striking chisel it was developed over centuries for that use with a steel hammer and it is close to perfection. Good pre-WWII Western chisels (especially those with a tang ) are wonderful push chisels, light, well balanced, and comfortable in hand. Each chisel, Japanese and Western can crossover and do the other's job but not as well. I'm lucky to have both.
japaneseWestern.jpg
Feels good to be doing something other than sharpening tools even if it is just a small box. BTW, the Alder really works well with hand tools. I may find more uses for it.
ken