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    • Q: Basic Chisel Set for Furniture Making?

    I’ve just started making furniture and am about to buy my first chisels. What types and sizes should I start with?


    asked by Chuck Morgan

    answer question

    Best Answer

    Chris_Gochnour writes:

    Bench chisels are the most versatile type, and a set of five or six will handle most of the tasks you face.

    Most bench chisel sets include chisels between 1/4 in. and 1 in. wide, which is a good range. But buy a 1/8-in.-wide chisel to supplement them, so you can get into tight spaces, like between dovetails.

    Answer originally published in Fine Woodworking #208.
    4:10 pm November 4, 2010
    tool-test-bench-chisels.pdf (1.13 MB)
    bench-chisel-techniques.pdf (813.14 KB)

    All Answers

    WoodorkingBE
    Tony Maund writes:

    As stated by Chris, for the sizes, but I would add a 1½" to this also.  If you are looking for quality, especially on a budget then you will not go far wrong with a set of NAREX chisels.  about $60 for 6 chisels.

    Read a review of them here 

    Do not forget that ALL chisels will require some tuning-up out of the box and also periodic sharpening  to work at there optimum and safely.

    Posted: 12:02 pm February 14, 2011
    Chris_Gochnour
    Chris Gochnour writes:

    Bench chisels are the most versatile type, and a set of five or six will handle most of the tasks you face.

    Most bench chisel sets include chisels between 1/4 in. and 1 in. wide, which is a good range. But buy a 1/8-in.-wide chisel to supplement them, so you can get into tight spaces, like between dovetails.

    Answer originally published in Fine Woodworking #208.

    Posted: 4:10 pm November 4, 2010