It depends on how large the work is and what you plan to carve.
   If its newel post or smaller, then a hatchet.

I always used a broad hatchet, but on tv I saw Peter Follansbee using a 
regular double bevel hatchet.
OK I say regular. His is a hand forged custom piece of art.
  But its double bevel.

   Carving with a hatchet is something everyone should do. Swinging a 
razor sharp blade in earnest is an experience.
You will want a chopping block for sure.
You use the bottom portion of the blade to dig in deepest. Middle of the 
blade can dig in too, but its more controllable for when you want a more 
controlled cut.
   Use the top of the blade for feather smoothing strokes.

There are a couple of good hatchets with your name on, waiting at the 
swap meet this weekend. ;)

   One thing I figured out is never make imitation sawmill lumber first. 
If you want a dog (or leg), carve the dog from the round. Don't bother 
making a rectanglar beam from a log, so you can carve a dog. Just carve 
the dog.
Well you know what I mean.

If you were talking whole log sculpting you will need bigger tools
   yours scott

-- 
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    Scott Grandstaff
    Box 409 Happy Camp, Ca  96039
    scottg@s...
    http://www.snowcrest.net/kitty/sgrandstaff/
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