Leather working tools

G

golfer1

Joined
Nov 24, 2016
Messages
419
I need some tools for leather work and wonder if it's worth paying more for a better tool such as Osborn's vs Tandy. I'm kinda like the buy better pay once attitude if it is worth while.
Thanks for your advice and bet wishes.
 
Dave, thanks for asking, guess I could have been a little more specific. I'm thinking of tools such as, edger, skiver, needles v groover. I have used some of the Tandy tools years ago and found them ok, but not necessarily what I would consider great. Those that needed to be sharp would not take and edge, and others that were supposed to be adjustable were somewhat disappointing.
Maybe I'm wrong and just need to use what they have. I sure would appreciate input from what they have.
By the way I would like to compliment you on your work. I have been to your website several times and am still blown away on the work you do.
Best wishes.
 
I've found that certain Tandy tools are great, others not so. On the edgers I've got quality ones from Barry King, Osborne, Weaver and Horseshoe brand. About 9 out of 10 times I find myself grabbing the Osborne #2 for edging. I use to use a #3 alot but not so much anymore.

For a Skviver I'd stay away from the Safety Skivver or Speed Beveller or whatever they call it. Great idea, just doesn't work out well. I've tried em many times over the years and have always thrown them away in frustration. I do 99 percent of all skivving with my roundknife. So use whatever you cut your leather out with.

Stitching Groover, absolutely use the Tandy. It works as well or better as the more expensive ones. We've got three of them total.

Another Tandy tool I can heartily recommend is their adjustable creaser. I use it on every sheath and just about every project.

Needles for handstitching I'm the wrong guy to ask.

Thanks. My wife Nichole and stepson Josh built that website. They did a great job. Thanks for the kind words.
 
Thank you once again Dave. Would you recommend something like a double back or double shoulder?
 
For needles, get harness needles. I got the John James harness needles from Rocky Mountain Leather Supply. They are like $8 for 25. The eye is the same diameter as the needle, so much less chance of them breaking.
 
I'd go with a side of either Wickett and Craig or Herman Oak 7/8 oz. Veg tan/tooling leather/strap leather. More expensive but definitly worth it and will fit in with your opinion expressed in your first post. Buy once cry once not every time ya use it.
 
Dave, I called WandC and they are sending out a sample packet. Thanks for your help.
Jrmy.........thanks for the tip on the harness needles.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top