First-time post & fairly young turner.
When I first showed an interest in woodturning about five years ago, I was given a gift of an introductory kit of tools (Benjamin Best, I think). They were enough to get me started and interested in the craft. Since then, I've added a few carbide scrapers. But now I'm looking at upgrading my go-to tools - particularly my bowl gouges. I've talked to some folk at stores about my upgrade path but I'm looking for some more insight. I'm looking to start with a 1/2" or 5/8" bowl gouge and then add a 3/8" in a little bit. I'm coming up with two names repeatedly: Carter & Son and Robust. As each is around $150 / tool (with handle) I don't want to make a mistake. So, I thought about asking here. I can imagine that this might be a Chevy / Ford sort of argument - both make good tools and it's a case of personal preference. If that's the case, I'd appreciate hearing that.
Please let me know if any additional information would be helpful. And thanks to everyone for their time and insight.
When I first showed an interest in woodturning about five years ago, I was given a gift of an introductory kit of tools (Benjamin Best, I think). They were enough to get me started and interested in the craft. Since then, I've added a few carbide scrapers. But now I'm looking at upgrading my go-to tools - particularly my bowl gouges. I've talked to some folk at stores about my upgrade path but I'm looking for some more insight. I'm looking to start with a 1/2" or 5/8" bowl gouge and then add a 3/8" in a little bit. I'm coming up with two names repeatedly: Carter & Son and Robust. As each is around $150 / tool (with handle) I don't want to make a mistake. So, I thought about asking here. I can imagine that this might be a Chevy / Ford sort of argument - both make good tools and it's a case of personal preference. If that's the case, I'd appreciate hearing that.
Please let me know if any additional information would be helpful. And thanks to everyone for their time and insight.