info on draw knifes

[dolfans]

I would love to find a old draw knife. I do not know anything about them and hoping you guys could share some info about them and the brands. Such as sizes and name brands etc. I would like to have some to use when i can. thanks

 

[jimreed2160]

I have a few drawknives around my shop but have never paid much attention to the brands. They are pretty commonly found--look for one in good shape. That means the blade has plenty of meat left and has not been sharpened improperly. I have found a few bargains where the blade was good but the handles were in bad condition or even missing. Those are easy to make, I have even seen corncobs used. Just be sure to avoid blades that are too rusty or pitted to return to service.

After you find a good drawknife you will have to sharpen it. Get a stone and sharpen it like a pocketknife. Then you need a shave horse or a bodger's bench.

One of your first projects can be to fashion a better set of handles for your bargain purchase. Good luck.

 

[coolford]

Draw knives are commonly found in the Ozarks as they are used to peel cedar logs. Many older ones around that are worn down to the backbone. I pick up different ones and have about 25 different makers. Most common are 8, 10 and 12 inch blades. Many have bad handles, don't buy one of those. Most go for $15 to $25 but those with adjustable handles bring more. Greenlee, Jennings, Red Diamond and Swan are some of the better ones. E-bay might be your best source.

 

[My Old Tools]

Add Witherby and Pexto to that list for old ones. For a new one, Barr Quarton hand forges them.
http://barrtools.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Store_Code=BT&Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=DK

 

[coolford]

I agree, Witherby and Pexto are also good as is P S & W which is earlier Pexto.