Hey everyone! I'm looking for some budget-friendly chisel sets to get started with woodworking. My budget is pretty tight, but I'm open to spending a little extra if it means the chisels will last longer. Since I'm still a beginner, I'm not quite sure what sizes I should be looking at. Also, I know I'll need to learn how to sharpen them properly. I've seen tons of YouTube videos out there, but if any of you have suggestions for affordable sharpening kits or favorite channels with good intro series on sharpening, I'd really appreciate it! Thanks for any advice you can share!
3 Answers
I wouldn’t overthink it too much. When I started, I grabbed a 4-pack of cheap chisels for just $8 (I think they were Stanley ). I found that I could get them really sharp and used them for years before upgrading. The key is really in how well you sharpen them, so I'd suggest putting most of your budget toward a good diamond stone and maybe a sharpening jig. There’s a million ways to do it, but getting the edge right is the most important part!
Honestly, almost any chisel set will do the trick. I've got a 3-pack of Irwin chisels I'm still figuring out how to sharpen properly. I picked up a couple of water stones and a honing guide, but let me tell you, sharp chisels make a world of difference! Just give yourself some time with new stones—dressing them is a bit of a learning curve. And remember, buy what fits your needs!
For a solid starter, Irwin chisels are great! They offer both affordable and high-end options, but honestly, any starter set will work. Just make sure you get full tang chisels; they’re better for using with a mallet as you're learning. About sharpening, it's more about the method you choose. I suggest getting a good mid and high grit block and maybe reading up on the right angles for using different types of chisels. Oh, and if you're thinking of splurging on a sharpening machine, the Tormek T8 is fantastic!
Totally agree! Once you learn how to sharpen well, any chisel, no matter the price, can do the job. Just remember, it's a lifelong process to improve your sharpening skills.