Woodcraft, a renowned supplier of quality woodworking tools and supplies, offers a wide range of chisel sets to suit woodworkers at every level. These chisel sets provide an array of options, from budget-friendly choices for beginners to high-end sets for experienced professionals.
For the purpose of this review, we will look at three chisel sets available from Woodcraft: The Woodriver Bench Chisel Set, the Pfeil Swiss Made Intermediate Size Carving Tool Set, and the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel Set.
The Woodriver Bench Chisel Set is an excellent choice for those starting on their woodworking journey. The set consists of six chisels, measuring 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8”, 3/4” and 1” The blades are made from high-quality CRV steel that ensures excellent edge retention.
The handles are constructed of beautifully grained wood, fitted with a steel hoop and ferrule for durability. The balance between the handle and blade is commendable, making these chisels comfortable to use for extended periods.
However, these chisels require initial honing out of the box. Once sharp, they perform admirably in a range of tasks, from chopping mortises to paring joints.
For woodworkers looking to delve into the world of wood carving, the Pfeil Swiss Made Intermediate Size Carving Tool Set is an excellent option. This 12-piece set offers a diverse range of shapes and sizes, allowing for intricate and detailed carving work.
Pfeil chisels are well-known for their superior quality and precision. The blades are made from special alloy chrome-vanadium steel and are finely ground, polished, and sharpened ready for use. The octagonal ash handles sit comfortably in the hand, providing excellent control.
While pricier than the other sets, the Pfeil set offers exceptional value for its quality and versatility. It's a worthy investment for anyone serious about wood carving.
The Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel Set is a nod to the classic design of chisels from the early 20th century, offering a perfect blend of tradition and performance. The set includes four chisels in the most commonly used sizes: 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", and 1".
These chisels feature high-carbon chrome steel blades that retain a sharp edge. They come with an initial factory grind and require some honing before use. The handles are made from Hornbeam, known for its resilience against mallet blows.
The socket design of the handle-to-blade connection adds an extra layer of durability. The thin blades and beveled edges allow for precision work in tight spots, making these chisels perfect for fine woodworking tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing a chisel set largely depends on your needs and budget. The Woodriver Bench Chisel Set offers great value for beginners, the Pfeil Swiss Made Intermediate Size Carving Tool Set is perfect for dedicated carvers, while the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel Set delivers superb performance for more advanced woodworkers. Each of these sets, available from Woodcraft, can be a great addition to any woodworking toolbox.
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