Auriou Cabinet Rasps

Cabinet rasps are the heart of the Auriou rasp line. They are used for general shaping work and can remove an amazing amount of wood while leaving a smooth surface. The extra width of cabinet rasps (about 1/8th of the length) makes it easier to achieve a consistent surface over a large area. It generally works best to use a rasp 3 to 4 times as long as your workpiece is wide. To shape a cabriole leg, you would use a 10″ or 12″ rasp.

The top surface of a cabinet rasp is curved and the bottom surface is flat. The rasp retains its full width for about 3/4 of its length, then tapers to a point.

Many woodworkers ask which Auriou rasps would be replacements for the venerable Nicholson^® #49 and #50 pattern makers rasps. While there are no direct replacements for these in the Auriou line, those listed below are the closest matches.

Nicholson^® #49 — Auriou 10″ Cabinet Rasp 7 grain
Nicholson^® #50 — Auriou 10″ Cabinet Rasp 9 grain

If you are purchasing your first Auriou rasp, the 10″ 9 grain cabinet rasp is a good choice for general woodworking tasks. For fine work or smaller workpieces, we recommend a Modellers Rasp. If you really need to remove a lot of wood quickly, try the Half Round Roughing Rasp, also known as ” The Hog”.

The 12″ Auriou Cabinet Rasp recommended by Charles Brock for chairmaking is the 12″ 10 grain model.