Curved vs Flat draw knife?

[k-hat]

I'm wanting to get my first draw knife, and in a quandary as to which to go for.  Thought i had a curved off of ****, but someone outbid me the last hour while i was sleeping      
Meanwhile, a guy about 4 gallons of gas away has a flat one for $10 (let's see, @ $3/gal . . .).  dont' wanna go thru the trouble of getting it if it's no use.

What are your thoughts and experiences with these?  

Thanks!

[Nim-rod]

I've never used a curved one but I love my flat one because I can used it as a flat scraper as I go along.

[coaster500]

For me "a beginner" I can create a curved surface with a flat knife but I can't create a flat surface with a curved knife?

I get most of my wood working tools from antique stores. My draw knife cost $12 bucks...

Good luck

[Pat B]

Each has its own plusses and minuses. I perfer a flat blade but that is mostly all I ever used. Curved blades work well with irregular surfaces.

[Stiks-n-Strings]

I think it's just personal preference. I learned how to chase a ring with a curved drawknife and feel I have more control with one over a flat draw knife.

Just my flavor I reckon.

[red hill]

I use a flat drawknife.  This week I taught my science students to use the drawknife and farrier's rasp to shape a red oak board bow.  The flat dk seemed easy for Junior High students to use.  
I bought a fairly good dk from an antique store like coaster. Only cost about 12-13 bucks.

[k-hat]

Thanks guys.  I've been on the lookout for one at antique stores and such, but i may have to make another round before i drive for this one. Mainly wanted to make sure a flat one would not be a waste of time and money.

Thanks again for the input!

[PEARL DRUMS]

Ive only used a straight knife. I personally cant see any reason for another style. It has done all I asked of it.

[Osagetree]

Like Kris, I've always used curved.....

[KellyG]

I say go and get it before someone else does.

[Adam Keiper]

Personal preference.  I like straight blades that are aligned (not offset) with the handles.

If you're looking for a used one, make sure the steel isn't pitted.  Unless you would grind and hone the base completely flat again, the cutting edge will always be full of nicks, no matter how much you sharpen it.  Also, check to make sure the handles are tight.

[George Tsoukalas]

I use a straight handled curved blade but that's only because I inherited it from my Dad. Flea markets and old second hand stores are worthy of frequent trips. Those old knives are great. All they need is some steel wool, a file and some oil. Jawge