Crimson Pipe Awl

I am a professional leatherworker of some 35 years.
I have been using awls for most of my career.
The pipe awl was a step away from the traditional awl shape and initialy I questioned the reason for this.
I then came into possession of one... well! ergonomic is not a big enough word.
It is as if someone has found the perfect hand position for awl work and cast the shape from wax, from which this tool was formed.
It fists the hand so well it almost disappears. I teach all levels of leatherworker from Beginners to Teachers and without doubt, this is the awl they all prefer. I can see why.
Not only is it comfortable in the hand, it is substantial, this is one awl that gets dropped the least because of this.
The taper of the haft to the blade is such that it takes up very little space in the hand.
This makes swapping the needles for the awl and back again when stitching very smooth.
Some awl are lovely, but just too thick in this area.
The swelled part of the awl which gives it it’s pipe shape has turned out to be invaluable.
When stitching, the favoured hand holds both the awl and needle at the same time.
The awl is moved and directed by the lower three fingers, this swell makes this manipulation a dream, slimmer awls can often be dropped during this needle to awl transition.

Then! the ability to adjust the angle of the blade to perfectly match the stitchers grip is a game changer.
I am left handed, so favour a different angle, changing the blade to suit my style takes only a moment.
The ability to change blades to suit different items and thread sizes is another huge benefit.
Do not be governed by looks, you have to have it in your hand to appreciate it and once you do, you will.
To the point I now have several of them here in the workshop and will have more!
There are many good awls on the market, some are excellent, this is almost perfect.

Beautifully made. This tool makes it so much easier to produce stitch work which looks neat and attractive

... and the exchangeable heads are genius.

I have several AWLS which all work fine but the CH Pipe Awl is very comfortable and nice in the hand. However, for me I think the pipe handle could be just a little shorter in length but I am sure I will get used to it.
regards
Mike.

If you use the Crimson Hides French style irons like myself , you should consider buying the pipe awl to suit your iron size. The pipe awl is very comfortable in the hand and has the advantage due to its blade shape of NOT enlarging the existing holes. In short, the pipe awl is a very good tool, you will love it.

regards
Mike.