Woodturning chisel made for precise, fine detailing on spindle work, introducing Robert Sorby Fingernail Spindle Gouge. Gives turners confidence when cutting delicate beads and coves in confined areas. Is it the right tool for serious spindle turners?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Cutting Quality: Fine, controllable cuts ideal for detailed spindle profiles
- • Best for: Woodturners working on spindle pieces and ornamental profiles
- • Not ideal for: Heavy roughing or bowl turning where larger gouges suit better
Fingernail spindle gouge designed for fine detailing on spindle work between centres. Made in the UK with a profile suited to close, controlled cuts.
Precise shaping in tight profiles – with fingernail gouge profile
The fingernail profile creates a curved, narrowed cutting edge that accesses coves and hollows on spindle work. Narrow contact area allows controlled slicing rather than broad scraping.
Enables neat beads and crisp transitions on small-diameter spindles, helping achieve refined ornamental detail.
Safer turning in confined areas – thanks to wing tips ground back
Having the wing tips ground back reduces the danger of the wings catching on work when operating near shoulders or in tight zones. The reduced projection limits unexpected snags during detailing.
Lowered risk of catches improves control and confidence when finishing close to centres or shoulders.
Purpose-built for between-centre work – with spindle-specific geometry
Geometry tailored to spindle tasks makes access between centres straightforward and accurate. The shape and size suit finishing passes and delicate ornamentation on supported spindle blanks.
Makes finishing passes and intricate profiles simpler when working between centres, helping maintain consistent results.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Robert Sorby Fingernail Spindle Gouge
- Made in the UK – Reliable manufacturing quality for consistent tool performance and longevity
- Wing tips ground back – Reduced chance of catches when turning in tight spots
- 3/8in (10mm) cutting edge – Precise small-diameter cuts for detailed ornament and finishing
- Fingernail profile – Curved edge reaches coves, enabling neat beads and transitions
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Woodturning chisel
- Type: Fingernail spindle gouge
- Cutting edge: 3/8-inch (10mm)
- Intended use: Fine spindle detailing
- Suitable for: Detailing between centres
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the gouge best used for?
A: Ideal for fine detailing on spindle work and for finishing ornamentation on spindle pieces, particularly when working between centres.
Q: Are the wing tips modified for safety?
A: Yes, the wing tips are ground back to reduce the danger of them catching when working in confined areas.
Q: Where is the gouge manufactured?
A: Made in the UK.
🏆 Our Verdict
Ideal for turners who focus on spindle ornamentation and finishing passes. Fingernail profile combined with ground-back wing tips gives precise access and reduced risk of catches. Good long-term value for regular spindle turners thanks to robust construction and careful shaping.
