Official Luthiers Forum!

[Quote=RCoates]Go to WoodNet do a search for MHG and you'll find a few opinions[/QUOTE]

Ronn..thanks for the info...I checked out the MHG's chisels on WoodNet and it seems they might be a good value buy BUT they have some cons. I learned long ago that it is worth spending a few extra bucks for a good tool.

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Brad
Avon, OH

Brad-
I notice a lot of the recommended tools are intended for driving with a hammer/mallet (notice the steel rings, or the tough plastic handles...)
If you want something for general use around the shop they will be fine. For finer work, especially with softwoods, you will likely find the bevel angle too steep, and the whole tool a bit clumsy. I've got a bunch of these and they are just the ticket for chopping mortises or quick dovetails.
For working on instruments, you need paring chisels. I bought a few from Bill Lewis aka Lewis Luthier Supply in Vancouver years ago and they are fantastic tools. Lewis was bought by LMI and the chisels they carry look just like mine. I also agree with the many posters who have suggested buying a few very good chisels rather than a set, and also the suggestions about getting a good sharpening system of some kind.
Have fun- working with sharp edge tools (not carbide router bits!) is one of the nicer parts of woodwork.
John

John...very insightful. Thanks!

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Brad
Avon, OH

Check out Hartville Tool. They have a great sale on a very nice set. I have
those, plus the LMI paring chisels in the 1mm, 2mm, and 3mm sizes. I also
have several specialty Pfeil chisels from Woodcraft.

The Pfeil's are pretty affordable for the quality as well - I think they can be had for much less than the LMI chisels although the steel is just sub-standard comparatively - so I have been told by knowledgeable persons.
Cheers
charliewood

[QUOTE=Shane Neifer] I really like the Sorby paring chisel....did I say that yet?



Shane[/QUOTE]

I have a Sorby paring chisel that used to belong to my Grandfather (He was a cabinet maker) and I love it too.

For the rest of my chisels I use Hirsch Firmer and they are great.