Unhandled gouges

[Harlan Barnhart]

I need several gouges and I have an idea for handles that I would like to try. Where would one look to buy unhandled tang gouges? I let a set get away on ebay several weeks ago and there hasn't been much since.

[Robert Rozaieski]

I'd just keep an eye on ebay for handled or unhandled. In my searches, decent gouges without handles don't seem to fetch prices much lower than ones with handles. Don't rule out buying from international sellers either. I just bought two sets myself (one set out-cannel, one set in-cannel) from across the pond. Both were bought as a set of 4, with handles, for about $17-$18 per gouge, including shipping from England. If you don't like the handles, just knock the old handles off with a scrap piece of wood (used as a punch) and a mallet. The handles typically come off pretty easily with just a few raps. You could then use the handles that came on the gouges for something else, like file handles.

[Dennis McGarry]

Are you going to be using these all teh time or are they a prototype type thing?

if they are for use, i would have to say...

http://www.thompsonlathetools.com/

very good prices and great quality hss gouges..

[Harlan Barnhart]

Thanks for the ideas. Rob, I have noticed more quality vintage gouges from England. Generally I don't like international transactions but this is worth considering. I don't see myself knocking off a perfectly good handle though.

[harry strasil]

A lot of Woodworkers buy a set of chisels, remove the handles and make their own that fits their hands comfortably.

[Walter Plummer]

http://www.frogwoodtools.com/ Their catalog has both handled and unhandled prices on carving tools.