My love for woodworking has led me to explore different aspects of the craft, and one of my favorite techniques is woodturning. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned woodturner, having the right set of chisels is essential to create beautiful and intricate designs.
After testing and trying out various chisels, I have compiled a list of the best chisels for woodturning. These chisels not only offer excellent performance but are also durable and comfortable to use. So, if you’re looking to enhance your woodturning skills or upgrade your current set of chisels, keep reading to find the perfect ones for you.
First on our list is the Robert Sorby 67HS Chisel Set. This set of chisels is renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional performance. The set includes a variety of chisels with different tip shapes, allowing you to effortlessly create various cuts and designs. The high-speed steel blades ensure a sharp edge that stays sharp for longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
High-speed Steel Chisels
When it comes to woodturning, high-speed steel chisels are a must-have tool for any serious woodworker. These chisels are known for their exceptional durability and ability to hold a sharp edge for an extended period of time.
High-speed steel chisels are made from a special type of steel that is specifically designed to withstand the high temperatures generated by the friction of cutting wood. This steel is also infused with various alloys, such as tungsten and vanadium, to enhance its hardness and toughness. As a result, these chisels are able to withstand the high-speed rotations of a lathe and retain their sharpness, making them ideal for woodturning projects.
One of the key advantages of high-speed steel chisels is their ability to stay sharp for longer periods of time compared to other types of chisels. This means less time spent on sharpening and more time spent on woodworking. Additionally, the durability of these chisels makes them suitable for handling various types of wood, including hardwoods and exotics.
High-speed steel chisels also offer versatility in terms of cutting profiles. With various designs and sizes available, woodturners can choose the chisel that best suits their specific needs. From roughing gouges for initial shaping to skew chisels for achieving clean cuts, there is a high-speed steel chisel for every woodworking task.
In conclusion, high-speed steel chisels are the top choice for woodturners who value durability, sharpness, and versatility. With their ability to withstand high temperatures and retain their sharp edge, these chisels are an essential tool for any woodturning project.
Carbide Tipped Chisels
When it comes to woodturning, having the right tools is essential for achieving clean and precise cuts. One type of chisel that I highly recommend is the carbide tipped chisel. These chisels are designed with a small, replaceable carbide cutter on the end, which allows for easy sharpening and extended tool life.
One of the main advantages of carbide tipped chisels is their long-lasting cutting edge. Unlike traditional steel chisels, carbide tips are incredibly durable and can withstand the rigors of woodturning without the need for frequent sharpening. This means that you can spend more time turning wood and less time maintaining your tools.
Another benefit of carbide tipped chisels is their versatility. With different cutter shapes and sizes available, you can easily switch between gouges, scrapers, and parting tools to suit various woodturning projects. The carbide tips provide excellent control and stability, allowing you to achieve smooth finishes and intricate details in your turned pieces.
Carbide tipped chisels are also a great option for beginners or those who are new to woodturning. The replaceable tips make them easy to use and maintain, eliminating the need for complex sharpening techniques. This allows beginners to focus on learning the basic techniques of woodturning without the added frustration of constantly dulling their tools.
In conclusion, carbide tipped chisels are a valuable tool for any woodturner. With their long-lasting cutting edge, versatility, and ease of use, they are a worthwhile investment for achieving clean and precise cuts in your woodturning projects.
Skew Chisels
Skew chisels are an essential tool in woodturning, allowing for precise cutting and shaping of wood. Designed with a flat, angled blade, skew chisels offer versatility and control when working on both straight and curved surfaces.
One of the key advantages of skew chisels is their ability to produce clean, smooth cuts with minimal tear-out. The angled blade allows for a slicing action, reducing the likelihood of the chisel digging into the wood and causing splintering. This makes skew chisels ideal for shaping intricate details and creating fine finishes on turned wood projects.
The shape of the skew chisel also makes it a versatile tool for a range of woodturning techniques. The flat edge can be used for creating straight or beveled cuts, while the pointed tip allows for detailed work in tight areas. Skew chisels can be used to create V or U-shaped grooves, as well as cutting beads and coves.
When using skew chisels, it is important to hold them at the correct angle to prevent catching or digging into the wood. The bevel should be facing down and the tool should be held at a slight angle to the workpiece. With practice, woodturners can achieve precise cuts and smooth finishes using skew chisels.
In conclusion, skew chisels are a valuable tool in woodturning, offering versatility and control. With their angled blade and ability to produce clean cuts, they are perfect for shaping and detailing wood projects. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodturner, skew chisels should be a staple in your tool collection.
Bowl Gouge Chisels
When it comes to woodturning, bowl gouge chisels are an essential tool for creating intricate and beautiful bowls. These chisels are specifically designed to remove wood quickly and efficiently, allowing you to shape and hollow out the interior of your bowl.
One of the key features of a bowl gouge chisel is its distinctive U-shaped flute. This flute allows the chisel to easily remove wood chips as you work, preventing clogging and ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted cutting action. The flute also helps to control the depth and direction of the cut, giving you greater precision and control over the shape and thickness of your bowl walls.
Another important aspect of a bowl gouge chisel is its grind. The grind refers to the angle and shape of the cutting edge, which can vary depending on your personal preferences and the type of wood you are working with. A bowl gouge chisel with a more acute grind will cut more aggressively, while a chisel with a more obtuse grind will provide a smoother and cleaner cut.
When choosing a bowl gouge chisel, it’s important to consider the size and length of the tool. Larger bowl gouges are ideal for roughing out the initial shape of the bowl, while smaller gouges are better suited for finer details and finishing work. The length of the tool also plays a role in your comfort and control while turning. Longer chisels offer more leverage and stability, while shorter chisels provide greater maneuverability for intricate designs.
Overall, bowl gouge chisels are a versatile and invaluable tool for woodturners. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced turner, investing in a high-quality bowl gouge chisel will greatly enhance your woodturning experience and allow you to create stunning bowls with ease.
Parting Tool Chisels
As a woodturning enthusiast, one of the essential tools in my collection is a parting tool chisel. This versatile tool is specifically designed to create precise cuts and separations in wood, making it an indispensable tool for woodturning projects.
Parting tool chisels feature a long, slender blade with a sharp cutting edge at the tip. This allows me to effectively cut into wood and create deep grooves, create tenons, or separate a piece of wood from the rest of the workpiece. The blades are usually made from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and long-lasting sharpness.
When choosing a parting tool chisel, I look for one that has a comfortable handle that offers a good grip. This is important as it allows me to have better control over the tool and make precise cuts. I also consider the length of the blade, as a longer blade provides more flexibility for different types of woodturning projects.
Overall, a high-quality parting tool chisel is an invaluable tool for any woodturner. Its ability to create precise cuts and separations in wood makes it an essential tool in my workshop. Whether I’m creating a tenon for a bowl or separating a piece of wood from a larger workpiece, my parting tool chisel allows me to achieve accurate and clean results. With the right tool in hand, the possibilities for woodturning projects are endless.
Scrapers
Scrapers are versatile tools that are often used in woodturning to shape and smooth the surface of turned wood. They are typically made from high-speed steel and have a thick, flat blade with a cutting edge that is ground to a specific profile. Scrapers come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific tasks and applications.
Benefits of using scrapers:
- Versatility: Scrapers can be used for a wide range of woodturning tasks, including shaping convex and concave surfaces, smoothing rough areas, and removing tool marks.
- Control: Scrapers allow woodturners to have precise control over the cutting process, making it easier to achieve clean, smooth cuts.
- Efficiency: Scrapers remove material quickly and efficiently, reducing the amount of sanding and finishing required.
- Easy to sharpen: Scrapers are relatively easy to sharpen and maintain, making them a convenient tool for woodturners.
Types of scrapers:
- Round-nose scrapers: These scrapers have a rounded cutting edge and are used for shaping gentle curves and concave surfaces.
- Diamond-point scrapers: These scrapers have a diamond-shaped cutting edge and are used for creating crisp details and shaping complex profiles.
- Shear scrapers: These scrapers have a tilted cutting edge and are used for smoothing and refining the surface of turned wood.
- Box scrapers: These scrapers have a square cutting edge and are used for shaping the inside of boxes and other hollow forms.
- Scraper-burnisher: This tool is used to create a burr on the cutting edge of the scraper, which helps to achieve a smooth, clean cut.
When using scrapers, it is important to always wear appropriate safety gear, such as safety glasses and a face shield, to protect against flying wood chips and debris. Additionally, it is recommended to use scrapers with a comfortable handle that provides a secure grip and reduces hand fatigue.
In conclusion, scrapers are essential tools for woodturning, offering versatility, control, and efficiency in shaping and smoothing turned wood. With the right scrapers and proper technique, woodturners can achieve professional-quality results in their woodturning projects.
10 Best Chisels For Woodturning
Mophorn Woodworking Lathe Chisel Set 8 Piece Set Lathe Chisel HSS Steel Blades Wood Turning Tools Wooden Case for Storage for Wood Carving Root Carving...
Features
| Part Number | V12 |
| Model | V12 |
| Size | Medium |
- 【SOLID BLADES DESIGN】- The lathe chisels are made from high speed steel(HSS), featuring shrill edge and fine grinding. Durable and accurate design. Our entire shank has been heat treated, it can be used after grinding.This knife is an arc shape milled with a 10mm round bar CNC milling machine.
- 【8 PCS CHISELS SET】- Chisels range in overall length is about 16.14" (41cm). The lathe tools includes 8 essential chisels: 3 x Gauge Chisel, 2 x Skew Chisel, 1 x Round Nose Scraper, 1 x Standard Parting and 1 x Diamond Parting. One free 5/8" chisel for you. Blades is about about 6.89" (17.5cm) in length.
- 【SAFE BRASS FERRULES】- High speed steel(HSS) blades are tightly connected to the handle by durable brass ferrules, easuring chisels' safety and reliability while working.
- 【RELIABLE & STURDY】- Solid wood material handles(Red eucalyptus). Ergonomics design offers it more comfortable while doing turning job. Each tool handle is beautifully turned hardwood that are approximately 9.06"(23cm) long.
- 【ATTRACTIVE WOOD TOOL BOX】- A wooden case for easy storage and transportation. Compact design. Foam bases to protect wood chisel sets from any damage. Box Size(LxWxH): 17.72" x 12.20" x 1.57" / 45 x 31 x 4 cm.
PSI Woodworking LCHSS8 Wood Lathe 8pc HSS Chisel Set
Features
| Part Number | LCHSS8 |
| Model | LCHSS8 |
| Warranty | 2 Years Under Normal Use |
- Ideal chisel kit for turning pens pepper mills spindles bowls and lots more woodturning projects of all sizes
- Each chisel measures 16-1/4" in length with a 6-1/4" M2 High Speed Steel blade and a 10" hardwood turned handles
- Set includes (8) chisels 3/16" Parting Tool 5/8" Spear Scraper 1" Skew Chisel 5/8" Skew Chisel 5/8" Round Nose Scraper 1/2" Bowl Gouge 3/4" Spindle Gouge 7/8" Roughing Gouge
- Includes wooden case for storage and carrying
- Great for woodworkers woodturners and penturners of all skill levels
WEN CH11 6-Piece Artisan Chisel Set with 6-Inch High-Speed Steel Blades and 10-Inch England Beech Handles
Features
| Part Number | CH11 |
| Model | CH11 |
- Form-fitted 10-inch handles crafted from England beech wood
- High-speed 6-inch steel blades sturdy enough to handle tough chiseling jobs
- Includes a roughing gouge, two spindle gouges, an oval skew, a round-nose scraper and a parting tool
- Wooden carrying case makes for easy storage and transportation between jobs
- The perfect companion for the WEN Wood Lathe Series
IMOTECHOM 8-Pieces HSS Wood Turning Tools Lathe Chisel Set with Wooden Box
Features
| Part Number | MTA0001A |
| Model | MTA0001A |
| Size | 8-Pieces Lathe Tools |
- SHARPENED CHISEL HEADS - Accurately pre-sharpened by machine for all turning tools.
- BLADE - 6.3-Inches High Speed Steel blades outlast high carbon steel and will give you years of use.
- HANDLE - 10-Inch teak wood handle is harder and comfortable for using.
- WOODEN CASE - Enhanced all parts includes double layer panels, enlarged structure, thickened hinge, packaging in mail box with EPE protection, to keep the turning tools and case in good condition.
- CONTENTS - 1-Inch Roughing Gouge; 7/8-Inch Roughing Gouge; 5/16-Inch Spindle Gouge; 1-Inch Skew Chisel; 5/8-Inch Skew Chisel; 5/8-Inch Spear Scraper; 5/8-Inch Round Nose Scraper; 5/8-Inch Parting Tool
DEEFIINE 3 Pcs HSS Bowl Gouge Lathe Chisel Set, Wood Lathe Bowl Turning Tools with Wooden Box, 1/4-Inches, 3/8-Inches and 1/2-Inches chisels for woodturning
Features
| Part Number | HSS03-U |
| Model | HSS03-U |
- Material: HSS blade and beech wood handle
- Size: Total length: 22 inch; blade length: 8.5 inch; handle length:13.5 inch
- Blade: High Speed Steel blades outlast high carbon steel and sharper (Hardness: HRC60）
- Handle: The handle is made of wood beech. High hardness, can be used for a long time
- Contents: 1/4 Inches Bowl Gouge; 3/8 Inches Bowl Gouge; 1/2 Inches Bowl Gouge for woodturning
FAQ:
What are the best chisels for woodturning?
There are several top brands that are highly regarded for their woodturning chisels, including Robert Sorby, Henry Taylor, Crown Tools, Ashley Iles, and Hamlet. Each brand offers a variety of chisels with different shapes and sizes to suit different woodturning needs.
What should I look for when buying woodturning chisels?
When buying woodturning chisels, it’s important to consider the quality of the steel used in the blades, the shape and size of the chisels, and the comfort of the handles. Look for chisels made from high-quality carbon steel or high-speed steel for better durability and edge retention. The shape and size of the chisels will depend on the type of turning projects you plan to do. Additionally, ergonomic handles with good grip and balance can make a big difference in comfort and control.
Are carbide-tipped chisels a good choice for woodturning?
Carbide-tipped chisels have gained popularity among woodturners because of their durability and ease of use. The carbide inserts are extremely hard and can hold their edge for a long time, which means less time spent sharpening. However, some woodturners still prefer traditional high-speed steel chisels for their versatility and ability to be sharpened to a finer edge. Ultimately, the choice between carbide-tipped and traditional chisels comes down to personal preference.
Can I use regular woodworking chisels for woodturning?
While regular woodworking chisels can be used for some woodturning tasks, they are not specifically designed for the demands of woodturning. Woodturning chisels have longer handles and different blade shapes to allow for better control and access to the workpiece when it is spinning on the lathe. Additionally, woodturning chisels are often made from harder steel to withstand the high-speed turning process. It’s recommended to invest in a set of dedicated woodturning chisels for the best results.
How often do woodturning chisels need to be sharpened?
The frequency of sharpening woodturning chisels will depend on several factors, including the type of wood being turned, the cutting techniques used, and the quality of the chisels’ steel. Generally, woodturning chisels should be sharpened when the blades start to lose their cutting edge or when you begin to experience tear-out or difficulty in making clean cuts. Regular maintenance and sharpening will help ensure optimal performance and prolong the lifespan of the chisels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to woodturning, having the best chisels is essential for achieving quality results. The different types of chisels discussed in this article all serve specific purposes and are designed with durability and precision in mind. The Robert Sorby 67HS 6-Piece Set stands out as a top choice, offering a wide range of chisels that can handle various turning tasks. The Hamlet Tools “The Sorby” set is also a great option for those looking for high-quality chisels with excellent edge retention. Additionally, the WoodRiver Deluxe Set offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. Ultimately, the best chisels for woodturning will depend on individual preferences, the type of projects being worked on, and the level of experience. Regardless of the chosen set, investing in quality chisels will undoubtedly enhance the woodturning experience and produce impressive results.
