I just got a set of Narex chisels and noticed that the handle and blade are misaligned on a couple of them. The 1/4 inch chisel's blade is a bit skewed to the left, and the 1 inch chisel is also misaligned with the handle. I'm worried this could cause problems when using a mallet. Are these issues common, and should I consider returning them? Also, I saw that these chisels have TayTools branding alongside Narex—is that a sign of lower quality? Thanks for any advice!
5 Answers
Typically, a slight misalignment isn't a critical issue unless it's really extreme. It does make the chisels look a bit off, but it's something not uncommon in both new and vintage chisels. With today's precision tools, we don't expect such flaws as often. I've seen some chisels with noticeable alignment problems that worked perfectly fine despite their appearance, so it might not be a big deal for usage. But if it looks really bad and bothers you, it might be worth returning them.
Returning them for a full refund sounds like a solid plan. I've heard mixed reviews about TayTools' inventory quality, so getting them from a recognized retailer like Highland Woodworking or Lee Valley could be a more reliable option.
Yeah, I'd send them back without a second thought!
I’d recommend returning them. Misalignment probably won’t get better with time, plus it could affect resale value in the future.
Are TayTools really stamping their logo on well-known chisels? That’s a bit surprising. Generally, even if they aren’t perfectly aligned, they should still function well. However, if the misalignment is going to bug you, definitely don’t hesitate to send them back.