Hi Vann
I think the thing about making irregular shapes...particularly handles, that you need the most is stock removal in tight places.
There are so many tools/methods out there for taking the next steps right up to very fine using either finer quality rasps like Liogier, other rasps or files and abrasives...that I don't find the finishing of the final shape a problem....it's the stock removal to shape that is the problem.
This is where this coarser rasp excels.
That being said...if you adjust the angle of attack and pressure you put on the tool...you can have immense control over the resultant cut. This is where this quality and the random stitching come into real use.
To have the freedom to cut fast but accurately is vital in such tight spaces....and I am by no means any good at this yet! I needed the smoother handle to practice on before I set about anything important. But like any quality product...you can become a pretty good novice with the right kit which you would struggle to achieve with mass produced tools.
The cost implications have to be taken into account...but believe me...this is a different tool to any of the highest quality ones I have used before and it is designed especially for the purpose with input from Derek and Klaus of this very parish so it's going to be top notch in that area too.
As far as getting another finer one...yes I would definitely do that in addition to the coarse one if I had lots of handles to make...just for the time saving.
If I had to choose to have either a finer one or a No.9 I would choose the latter. I wouldn't need anything coarser...even on boxwood!
Whatever grain you choose....you will not be disappointed.
Jim
