The 10 Best Wood Chisel Sets

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This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in February of 2019. Woodworking is an art that can provide many hours of enjoyment, whether you’re a tradesperson, a DIY enthusiast, or a hobbyist. A reliable set of chisels will help you attain high-quality, results on any project, from creating one-of-a-kind furniture pieces to carving detailed, intricate sculptures. Here we rank various models based on comfort, durability, portability, and price. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Stanley 16-791 Sweetheart

2. Narex 863010

3. Stanley 16-150

Editor's Notes

February 05, 2021:

The type of woodwork you want to carry out is the primary factor when considering a set of chisels. A general-purpose set with heavy-duty handles, such as the DeWalt 4-Piece Set or the larger VonHaus Premium, usually consists of a range of sizes, and are ideal for shaving rough surfaces, cutting mortice joints, or shaping corners. However, intricate work such as carving or engraving will require a more varied set with differently shaped blades, as found on the Schaaf Set of 12.

In this update, we added the relatively unique set of Hersent Knives, which feature solid metal shafts with tungsten carbide tips. These are very strong and are used for making precise cuts on tough materials such as hardwood, alabaster, and even stone, and rather than the wood or polypropylene handles usually found on these type of chisels, they feature comfortable, leather-wrapped grips.

March 14, 2019:

Well-made, reliable chisels are a must when it comes to producing beautiful woodworking pieces that stand out for their quality. Those who prefer traditional, hardwood handles will appreciate the UK-manufactured Stanley Sweetheart and Bailey sets, which afford a touch of elegance. For colorful, plastic handles that will stand out on any workbench, look to the VonHaus Craftsman and Premium sets, as well as the DeWalt and WorkPro products. Any serious woodworker will appreciate the all-inclusive Schaaf set, which includes both chisels and gouges in a wide range of sizes, along with a canvas tool roll. Most of the sets come with protective tips for safe storage, and the VonHaus choices are both conveniently equipped with sturdy storage boxes. While most woodworkers plan to sharpen their tools to their liking upon arrival, some (especially dabblers) prefer not to have to spend the time. Therefore, throughout our list, we did make note of selections that do (and don’t) arrive particularly sharp out of the box.

4. Workpro 3-Piece Set

5. Schaaf Set of 12

6. Hersent Knives

7. Irwin Tools Marples

8. Stanley 16-401 Bailey

9. VonHaus Premium

10. DeWalt 4-Piece Set


Chris Gillespie
Last updated by Chris Gillespie

Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.


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