round knife vs head knife

[dirtycloth3s]

I’m a total beginner and I've realized I probably need a round or head knife for my leatherwork
are those terms basically interchangeable, or is there a real difference?
I’ve narrowed it down to two options in my budget, which are the Osborne 5" Knife #70 and the Stohlman 4 1/2" Damascus. they seem pretty neck and neck in reviews and price

should I go with one of these, or is there any other better option for beginners?

 

[fluffyman]

You might want to start with a Japanese skiving knife because the flat blade is easier to sharpen and gives you better control for both straight lines and curves.

 

[purple bean]

@dirtycloth3s Make sure to buy a leather strop and some polishing compound. This will help you keep the edge razor sharp after every few minutes of work.

 

[stuffmaker]

I’d definitely go with the Osborne, but grab the 4 inch version (or even smaller). a 5 inch blade is overkill for daily stuff, in my opinion. it keeps your hand too far away from the leather, so you lose that fine control

 

[Deertraks]

Here is what I have experienced. I have an Osborne and another brand that is hand made but is a thicker blade design. I use the Osborne because the thiner blade will cut and skive better. Like suggested the smaller blade diameter will make you happier. For my work, I wish I had an even smaller one.