Replies

1. 
   DCarr10760 | Dec 16, 2006 05:42pm | #1

   I just bought a set of Ashley Iles English Pattern Bench Chisels for my oldest son.  I've taken them around the block and am very impressed for the price.

   I got them from Joel at Tools for Working Wood.

   I also have the LN.  They're nice, but a bit small for some applications.  But for chopping dovetails, they're perfect.  I'm not sure I'd have them as my only chisels though.

   David C.

1. 
   old_idahoan | Dec 18, 2006 11:50am | #8

   thanks for the info. after much reading, i think i will order a set monday, of the ashley iles. it was great to read of various opinions.  fine woodworking is a great site.  do you know of a great on-line store?  the best i could find was "the best things". tools for woodworking was more expensive.

   thanks again, scott.

    

    

    

    

1. 
   DCarr10760 | Dec 18, 2006 03:51pm | #9

   I get nearly everything from http://www.toolsforworkingwood.com these days.

   His prices are good, maybe not the best, but service is the best and Joel (who runs it) stands behind everything he sells. 

   I'm not affiliated btw, except as a happy and regular customer.

   David C

2. 
   ptu | Dec 16, 2006 08:06pm | #2

   Check out Lee Valley, all their stuff is good, and it doesn't have to cost an arm and leg

3. 
   Troy | Dec 16, 2006 09:45pm | #3

   I am happy with the blue steel bench chisels that I got from woodline. I am biased though I live about 1 mile from their store. A friend of mine has the Lie Neilsen chisels and they are very nice. I like the handle style on a japanese chisel because I like to use a metal hammer. Also I think I can get them just a bit sharper but that might be my imagination. Anyway
   Happy holidays.

   Troy

4. 
   BruceS | Dec 17, 2006 01:43am | #4

   I frequent Flea markets and Antique stores.  And recently picked up a 3/8" Stanley 720 and 1/2" Stanley 740. Though both need handles, But at $5.00 each how could I go wrong.  Smiled all the way home,  there are many super finds to be had for the looking.   Picked up a dandy bimetal draw knife that way too.

   Work Safe,  Count to 10 when your done for the day !!

   Bruce S. 

    

1. 
   old_idahoan | Dec 17, 2006 07:56am | #5

   thanks for the info. i live in southern idaho, not many way to buy old tools.  any thoughts on where to to buy good old tools?

    

    

    

1. 
   BruceS | Dec 17, 2006 11:36pm | #6

   Don't cring too much when you go to.  http://www.antique-used-tools.com/stanleychisles.htm    I haven't delt with them personally but have browsed the site.   One reason I go to Flea Markets and Antique Stores.Work Safe,  Count to 10 when your done for the day !!

   Bruce S. 

    

2. 
   jquinn | Dec 18, 2006 04:30am | #7

   ebay is easiest.  I have had no problems on the tools I have bought.

   I like the old witherby "warrented" chisels.  they seem to take and hold a very good edge.  I use the scary sharp sharpening method.

5. 
   grizzz66 | Dec 18, 2006 09:37pm | #10

   hello there 

   just my two cents here about where to buy old tools .....   check out  http://www.waltsbrasscitytools.com  nice guy,  good to deal with, and very reasonable prices .  he has alot more than just planes also , all kinds of old hand tools :0)

   merry christmas  grizzly

6. 
   vincentedwards | Dec 20, 2006 03:06am | #11

   I own and HIGHLY reccomend a set of Matsumura (japanese) bench chisels. In a past Fine Woodworking article, they came out #1 in edge holding ability over two cherries and all others. I use the white steel chisels. They are available through Japan Woodworker, and though they are a bit pricy, they are worth it. I really like the design of the japanese chisel because the backs are so easy to flatten, and the overall feel of the tool is very good.

   If I wanted a standard english style chisel, I would go with the Ashley Isles or two cherries from tools for working wood.

   I agree with everyone who has spoken well of their company... they are a fantastic resource. I just got some ashley isles carving tools and gramercy tools riffles, and
   they are A+++ wonderful tools.

   - whatever you decide, i hope you enjoy your new chisels -

   if you go with two cherries, you should check out the posts on stripping the lacquer from these chisels. They really look better when the lacquer is removed.