Replies

1. 
   Lataxe | Jul 27, 2007 08:49pm | #1

   Joe,

   I have some MHG bench chisels which are identical to Two Cherries (blades, handle shapes and everything).  I suspect they are made in the same factory and labelled differently only for marketing purposes.

   If so, then the MHG mortising chisels should behave as do the Two Cherries.  I have three Cherries mortisers and have learnt to use them with a will!  (Malleting is a great release).

   I haven't tried other mortising chisels so have nothing to compare to the Cherries.  However, they cut easily and well (30 degree bevel and another 2 degree microbevel).  Their trapezoid profile means you can get them out the hole agin'.  They keep their edges very well and I have not chipped or otherwise damaged one yet (used only on hardwoods like teak, afromosia, cherry and rock maple).

   They came with an unnecessary varnish on blade and handle.  It is easily removed with nail-polish remover and a cotton swab.  You need to flatten the bevel and back a bit (just a tiny amount) because they have been polished shiney and this dubs their edges a little bit.  The polishing and varnishing seems to be another marketing thang.

   I also put two flats on the fat round handles, in line with the chisel sides.  This gives a visual and tactile clue to the chisel's orientation as you hold and whack it.  Also, they don't roll off the bench then either.

   In short, if these MHG mortisers are Cheries in disguise, they are good stuff, I MHO; but need a bit of attention of the sort described above to make them better than ex-factory and reaching their potential.

   Lataxe

1. 
   Joe Sullivan | Jul 27, 2007 09:03pm | #2

   Very helpful, thanks.  I have a number of vintage mortising chisels, but have been eyeing a new complete set.  MHG is in the running.

   Joe

1. 
   KiddervilleAcres | Jul 27, 2007 09:27pm | #3

   Joe,

   How does the price compare to the Cherries?

   Regards,Bob @ Kidderville Acres

    

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!

1. 
   Joe Sullivan | Jul 27, 2007 10:08pm | #4

   It appears they are less expensive.  I see Cherries on sale at $50 to $55, and $175 the set of four.  The MHG seem to sell for +- $30, probably less if on sale.  The MHG have the advantage of also being offered in standard sizes as well as metric.

   I wouldn't be surprised if they were made in the same plant.  Seems that manufacturer is pretty close to being the last German chisel maker standing, having spread out and absorbed various other smaller makers.

   Joe

   Edited 7/27/2007 3:09 pm ET by Joe Sullivan

2. 
   woodenhead | Jul 28, 2007 07:37am | #5

   I purchased a set and am very impressed and i think you will be to. I enjoy cutting mortises by hand, and they are big.

1. 
   CarlCrout | Aug 08, 2007 10:49pm | #6

   I believe that Hirsch and Two Cherrie are from the same factory but not MGH. I believe they use to make  Messerschmit airplanes (ME 109) in WWII.

1. 
   woodenhead | Aug 09, 2007 01:01am | #7

   MGH AND DASTRA WOOD CARVING TOOLS LOOK IDENTICAL, BOTH ARE MADE IN GERMANY.