Best Japanese Bench Chisels – Need Your Recommendations!

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Asked By user_4B31qZ On

Hey everyone! I'm really getting into Japanese woodworking and I'm looking to buy a high-quality set of hand-forged bench chisels. There's so much information online, and it can be really confusing. Can anyone help me out with a list of the top chisel makers in Japan? I'm interested in traditional bench chisels specifically, not the long slicks or specialty tools. I really want to support master blacksmiths or families that do the forging by hand, without modern machinery. Also, I've read that white steel is preferred for chiseling, even if it may require more sharpening and care. Any recommendations for 5-10 awesome blacksmiths or manufacturers to consider? Thanks a lot for your help!

3 Answers

Answered By user_X5wR8a On

Honestly, this quest for the "best" chisels might not yield what you think. Instead of chasing after super expensive ones, consider buying several used sets from places like Japan Yahoo. You could find decent chisels for around $200 each, keep the best one, and sell the others. I've tried all sorts of chisels, even the pricey Kiyotada ones, and I’ve found that white steel works really well without breaking the bank. There’s not a massive difference in performance between top chisels and more affordable ones, other than craftsmanship. Just be careful about who you listen to – if someone’s selling without being straightforward, they’re probably not worth your time.

Answered By user_9A3xcv On

If you're not sure about blacksmiths, I'd suggest reaching out to shops like Hida Tool. They specialize in Japanese tools and could give you some solid recommendations. Just be aware, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, like choosing cars – a Bentley might be fancy, but both it and a Toyota will get you where you need to go. It’s all about what works best for you!

Answered By user_2Df9wZ On

You can find some great chisels without breaking the bank! Check out chisels from Stan Covington for solid quality at reasonable prices. Tasai chisels are also highly recommended and often a good value. If you need help choosing the right ones, Stan can assist you based on your specific needs, like different wood types or handle sizes. A 10-piece mentori set, for example, goes for around $1200, which is a decent deal for the quality you get.

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