I don't claim to be a serious wood carver, but I like working with and making things from wood. I have a drawer filled with pocket knives and a tool box filled with carving chisels and knives that I have gathered up over the years. Carving to me is like wood turning, another of the things that I do with wood, for fun and relaxation.
I have a full supply of really good wood working and 'everyday carry' knives but recently an opportunity arose for me to borrow and try out a Flex Cut Whittlin' Jack. I have seen them for sale and wondered.
This is a two bladed folding knife designed for whittling or rough carving. I am not sponsored by Flex Cut so this is my opinion based on my experience only.
First off, the knife came out of its package sharp. I stropped the blade a couple of times while working as much from habit as necessity. The blades are more sturdy than a typical two blade pocket knife and so do not flex or threaten to break if you wedge and twist while working.
I used a piece of walnut and made a loose tea scoop, a small mixing spoon and a spreading knife to try out the tool. The Whittlin' Jack was a perfectly good tool to smooth out and shape the projects after I cut out the rough shape on the band saw. These projects were quick, easy and didn't require much sanding.
loose tea scoop, mixing spoon and spreading knife.
Conclusion:
If I wanted/needed a easily portable, easy to maintain, One Knife to Rule Them All I would consider a Whittln' Jack. I did find the handle a bit large for my hand and that would take some getting used to I think but my hands are smaller than average and getting arthritic.
It is a tool with which to start or travel, I think.
cheers Ianw
* I did use a dremel to shape the bowl of the spoon.
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