These sweep charts are close approximations of the various chisel and gouge sweeps. A lower sweep number indicates a flatter, less curved tool.  The higher the number the more deeply curved the cutting edge.

Chisels and Skew Chisels (#1 and #2) have straight cutting edges. 

Gouges (#3 through #10) have a curved cutting edge that is the arc of a circle. 

Veiner Gouges (#11) have a deep, U shaped cutting edge.

V Tools are classified by the angle formed by the two wings of the V.  Common V Tool angles are 45°, 60°, 75° and 100°.

Charts are not to scale.  Sizes are in mm.

For more about sweeps, see this video by carving teacher Mary May.

#1-Sweep Chisels and #2 Sweep  Skew Chisels #3 Sweep Gouge #4 Sweep Gouge #5 Sweep Gouge

#6 Sweep Gouge

#7 Sweep Gouge

#8 Sweep Gouge

#9 Sweep Gouge

#10 Sweep Gouge

#11 Sweep Veiner Gouge

60° V Tool

75° V Tool

The illustration to the left shows the four basic blade profiles. 

A. Straight
B. Long Bent
C. Short Bent (Spoon)
D. Back Bent

The illustration shows gouges but the definitions also apply to chisels and V tools.

 

100° V Tool

Blade Profiles