If you were only going to buy a couple gouges.....

[Andrew Menz]

In looking at the thread on manufacturers of gouges the other day I have an idea as to where I want to purchase a gouge or two. That being said I'm still in the dark as to what size or shape I should get. I'm looking to buy just one or two that I would use around the tail and neck of my decoys. Suggestions and reasoning would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Vince Pagliaroli]

That's a pretty tall order, as I can't imagine just having one or two? I've got "almost enough", and all get used sooner or later. Yet I feel I need more......

 

[Andy Grant]

I use Swiss Made Pfeil gouges and will give suggestions based on their sizing, but other brands may make similar ones. An advantage of the Pfiel is they come razor sharp. The first thing you do is make a sharpening block with it y cutting a grove with is in a block of wood like basswood. The you can add sharpening compound to the grove and 'strop' the gouge in it to keep it sharp.

The two gouges I always reach for are a 11/25 and a 11/12. The next I use just a much is a very large right angle gouge/parting tool, a 13/30. They are not cheap, but worth the cost. I like the #11 profile because you can use the center for one shape and the sides for a different more open shape. It like having two gouge options ready to go.

 

[Pat Gregory]

Wait until you go to St. Charles. Marv Meyer makes his own, they are reasonable in price and, you can select your own... pg