Berger Hollowing Tools

[Greg Just]

Has anyone used any of the Soren Berger Hollowing tools? How do they differ from other hollowing tools? Pro's and cons?

Thanks!

[Ryan Baker]

I haven't used one, but they look interesting. It's a version of a hook tool, cutting instead of scraping, so it will produce superior surface finish at the cost of learning curve. If the high cost is an issue, there are several ways to get essentially the same thing for very little cost. One way is to make your own hook tools from O1 steel rod -- which is pretty easy to do. Another option is to try something like Jeff Nicol's drill-bit tool (search for the thread here and on youtube), which is even easier to make. There are also versions of the hook tools like the ProForme and Munro that have hoods or covers that make them a little easier to control, and ring tools like the Termite -- all variations on the theme.