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.
| Blade Length | Width | Thickness | Overall Length | Available Grains |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 mm (8″) | 23 mm (29/32″) | 4.75 mm (3/16″) | 325 mm (13″) | 11 grain |
| 225 mm (9″) | 28.5 mm (1-1/8″) | 6 mm (1/4″) | 350 mm (13″) | 10 grain |
| 250 mm (10″) | 32 mm (1-1/4″) | 6 mm (1/4″) | 375 mm (15″) | 7 grain, 9 grain, 11 grain |
| 300 mm(12″) | 38 mm (1-1/2″) | 7.56 mm (19/64″) | 425 mm (17″) | 6 grain, 8 grain, 10 grain, 12 grain |
