If a parrot from the hobbyist point of view can comment, I think Steven has made some great comments. I dont think checkering tools function quite like any other. If I were starting today on my own, Id watch videos and see if I could make practice cuts in a similar way.
Only thoughts, but the flat boards and blocks I practiced on were a bit too simplistic. Id try to put a curve on at least some of the practice pieces. Its not so easy to make a straight line, I think those jointers are worth considering. I hadnt the thought that they might be sharpened. Though mine is low mileage, it been a steady helper since the mid eighties and Ill ponder touching it up.
I think once someone moves past the feel of the tools and builds familiarity, get the Schafer book. Its sad to read of his passing, but he left quite a memorable resource.
