Undercuts in wood carving add depth and dimension to your work, but achieving them requires the right tools. The most common tools for creating undercuts include:

1. Chisels: Flat chisels are ideal for cleaning out straight edges and refining undercut areas. Their sharp, straight blades allow for precise control.

2. Gouges: Curved gouges are perfect for scooping out wood in concave shapes, making them indispensable for undercuts. They come in various sweeps (curvature) to match different needs.

3. V-tools: These tools create sharp, angled lines and are excellent for detailing and defining undercut edges. Their V-shaped blades help carve tight corners.

4. Bent Gouges: With their curved shafts, bent gouges reach into deep undercuts that straight tools can’t access, offering flexibility for intricate designs.

5. Knives: Detail knives with fine, pointed tips are useful for small undercuts and finishing touches.

Choosing the right tool depends on the depth and complexity of your undercut. Sharpness and proper technique are key to avoiding tear-out and achieving smooth results. Practice on scrap wood to master these tools before tackling your final piece.