Q:
What makes your mallets better than others?
A: Our mallets
stand out from the rest by the quality of their materials
and workmanship. We use only the best steel and brass from a
premium American foundry. Our handles are turned from the most
beautiful, highly-prized woods. They are tools of beauty that
will be a special addition to any workshop.
Q:
What makes your awls stand out?
A: Our birdcage awls are
hand crafted from the same beautiful hardwoods we use for our
mallets. The handles are shaped to fit comfortably in the hand.
The shafts are hand forged from O1 steel sharpened to a fine
point; the shanks incorporate a decorative twist that gives them a
special look. They are both tools of beauty and
exceptional functionality.
Q:
I have some wood of my own I'd like to use. Can you produce a
mallet or awl
using that wood?
A: Yes. Send us the wood
you'd like to use, and we'll turn the handle for you at no extra
charge. For mallets, the wood must be a minimum of 2 X2 X 12" in
size, completely dry and entirely free of cracks or splits. For awls,
the wood must be at least 2 X 2 X 5” in size.
Q:
What if I want to order a wood you don't have advertised for my
handle?
A: Contact us with your request. If we have the wood in
stock or can get it, we'll be glad to make a mallet handle using that
wood. Note that for some exotic woods, an extra charge may apply.
Q:
Can I return the tool if I don't like it?
A: We can take
returns in the case of unexpected defects or errors on our part. If
you wish to return it because it does not fit your needs or desires,
the tool must be in perfect, unused condition. In that case, return
shipping is at your expense. can take returns in the case of
unexpected defects or errors on our part. If you wish to return it
because it does not fit your needs or desires, the tool must be in
perfect, unused condition. In that case, return shipping is at your
expense. can take returns in the case of unexpected defects or errors
on our part. If you wish to return it because it does not fit your
needs or desires, the tool must be in perfect, unused condition. In
that case, return shipping is at your expense.
Q. Do
you offer a volume discount?
A: Contact us if you wish to purchase
in volume.
Q:
Can I buy your tools in stores?
A: The mallets and awls are
available in padauk only from Highland Woodworking at the same price.
The mallets are available in walnut from Mary May. All other woods
are available only directly from us.
Q:
Why don't you sell your tools in stores?
A: Selling them directly
to end users cuts out the middleman and helps us keep the costs low.
Q:
Why do you choose the woods you are using for handles?
A: Our
hallmark is the beautiful wood used in our handles, as well as their
shapes, which are specially designed for comfort in use. We choose
woods with the best color and figure because we know woodworkers and
carvers derive great pleasure from the appearance as well as the
functionality of their tools. and carvers derive great pleasure from
the appearance as well as the functionality of their tools. and
carvers derive great pleasure from the appearance as well as the
functionality of their tools.
Q:
How quickly will my tool arrive?
A: We normally ship by USPS First
Class Mail. Delivery times will vary depending on distance, but most
shipments should arrive within 2-3 days.
Q:
Can you ship FedEx or UPS instead of USPS?
A: Yes, but because of
our location, shipping by private carriers may take longer and cost
more.
Q:
I don't have PayPal. Can I still use a credit card to pay?
A: Yes.
PayPal accepts all major credit cards. You do not have to have a
PayPal account in order to use them.
Q:
Can I pay with a check?
A: Yes. We will hold your shipment until
the check clears the bank. This may take a week or two extra time.
Q:
Can I pay in installments?
A: Contact us in order to make special
arrangements for payment.
Q:
Why do some handles cost more than others?
A: Most of our tools
sell for standard prices. However, some woods—especially exotic and
highly-figured woods—are often more expensive because they are rare
and highly prized. Exceptional, one-of-a-kind pieces are sometimes
offered at slightly higher prices because of their rarity.
Q: What finish
are you using for the handles?
A: We hand apply Dr. Woodworker’s
walnut oil finish while the handles are on the lathe, then apply
several coats of Dr. Woodworker’s Pens Plus finish which is a
walnut oil, shellac and micro-crystalline wax mixture. We finish
by buffing the handles with carnauba wax.
