What chisels to buy initially for a pneumatic tool

["John VanCamp" <jvcstnwrks@zzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

Well Tim, you are correct in that there are so many choices. For working on
the hard stone (Granite) I believe you will find that the bushing tools will
be most effective Those are the 4 and 9 point waffle textured tools you
mentioned, along with cup chisels, and what is known as a criss-cross.
These all work by pulverizing the surface, and while some granite is
agreeable to chisel carving, the pulverizing technique is probably most
effective.  While I do have a T&H point for my pneumatics, I have found that
a 1/4 inch machine chisel is a better roughing in tool.  I also like a 3/4
inch with 4 teeth for roughing in.

Another favorite is a 3/4 inch flat for establishing lines etc. These two
are T&H new style carving chisels with the long exposed carbide insert.  I
am also very fond of a 2 inch  tooth chisel with small squared end teeth.
which I find invaluable for flattening surfaces.  All of the new chisels I
buy are carbide eventhough I work primarily with Limestone. I have managed
to pick up some excellent old steel tools on ebay auctions and from other
carvers I know, and there are several smiths around who still know how to
make a quality stone tool. ( a couple hang out on this site).

Finally, I have to say that while I may have a hundred plus pneumatic
chisels in my tool kit, there are only about a half dozen that do 90% of the
carving. Many of the others hardly ever get used, but nice to have when
needed. Those that get pick on time after time got to be that way by use.
Those are the tools that fit comfortably and I know what the result is going
to be.  Only experience with a lot of tools will give you that knowledge.

Oh, and by the way Tim.  Be aware that the first couple of times with a
pneumatic in your hand can be quite an adventure, particularly with that 1
inch long stroke. Not at all uncommon for a chisel to fly across the shop.
Give yourself some time with it, and I don't think you will pick up a manual
hammer very often again.

Good luck,
John VanCamp / JVC Stoneworks