Scaleworld

Do you like scalpel blades but don't care for the small, flat scalpel handles?  Prefer the cross-cut style of blade retainer as opposed to the snap fit of scalpels?  Then check out this dandy little Veritas Carver's Knife from Lee Valley & Veritas.  If you've never heard of them, don't feel like the Lone Ranger.  I hadn't either.  Their primary focus is the serious woodworker, not the modelbuilder. But, as we all know, no matter where a tool comes from, if it works we'll use it.

This knife is a substantial six inches in length, has a heavy duty brass collet and a brass end cap with an attached magnet for storage of spare blades inside the handle.  The handle itself is oval shaped and ribbed to minimize the chance of slipping.  And the blades are easily changed due to a cross-cut receiver that's very similar to conventional hobby knives.  That makes changing blades very easy, which is a definite plus when you consider how sharp scalpel blades are.

At first glance it's on the pricey side at $22.50...until you realize that you're getting not only the knife (with a curved blade already installed), but a foam lined blade storage box and 12 more blades.  Four each of spear point (think #11), curved and classic (standard surgeon's blade). 

Extra blades are available from Lee Valley at a price of $3.50 for a pack of 10 and, if you need a blade style other than the three Lee Valley offers, any standard scalpel blade will fit.

If you're looking for a better scalpel, check out Lee Valley & Veritas.  You'll be glad you did.