• Very impressive... I'm in the market for some chisels for diy jobs at home doors...etc.
    Any recommendations?
    Been waiting for the Aldi/lidl bargains but are they as good as some people say after they have been sharpened?

  • I've read somewhere that the Aldi ones are pretty good, and only need a little work to get a nice edge.

    Any recommendations?

    Really depends on budget and what you want them for. If you're planning on becoming a cabinet/furniture maker, then something with a nice, slim bevel-edged blade, and a comfortable wooden handle. The kind of thing that you want to look after, and never ever lend to anyone.

    http://www.axminster.co.uk/hand-tools/chisels/bevel-edge-chisels

    If it's for general carpentry, and you're likely to be bashing it with a hammer, then still get a bevel-edge set, but with a thicker blade and a composite handle, with metal end cap.

    https://www.screwfix.com/c/tools/woodworking-tools/cat9800001#category=cat9800002

    I tend to use the fancy ones on new wood, and something cheap, if it's used timber. You don't want to risk discovering a hidden nail with your best tools.

    You'll want three different sizes, at least. Something like 6mm, 12mm and 25mm. Then add different sizes as you you need them.

    Also, leave something in your budget for a reasonably good sharpening system. Water stones are nice, but can be messy, and need regular maintenance to keep flat. Something like a double sided diamond stone/plate is the most convenient, so will encourage you to use it more often.

    http://www.axminster.co.uk/axminster-rider-double-sided-diamond-bench-stone-951777

  • I'm only a diy type person but I have a weakness for vintage tools.
    Recently restored a record bench vice that is incredibly useful.
    I quite tempted by vintage tools tbh. I heard a lot of good things about crucible steel chisels that were marked cast steel by many old sheffield based makers. Although superseded by modern steels they were the best of the day. So should be plenty good enough for me.
    Looking to start a few projects in the summer so I've got a bit of time. Come Aldi stick the chisels in your next diy special.
    Then I'll restore the vintage ones for vanity points.

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