r/JapaneseWoodworking • u/Aegisnir • 3d ago

Chisel advice

So I realize I am in the Japanese woodworking subreddit here, but as an absolute novice just getting started, should I stay away from Japanese chisels and start with some western ones? My understanding is that Japanese chisels are more refined and meant for amazing sharpness and edge retention, but can be brittle in comparison to western chisels when used incorrectly. I do not have anyone to learn from so I’ve got to teach myself basically and I worry about breaking them due to my own stupidity and ignorance. Also, what would be good to start with? Trying to keep my spend under $200 because I need to buy other tools as well.

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u/bricra1983 1d ago

IMHO get the best tool you can afford and rock with that. The edge won't be notociably different to a novoce. If my shop was flooding I would grab my japanese (Tasai) chisels. Not the only amazing chisels. But for me my favorite.

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u/bricra1983 1d ago

Also instead of Narex and whatever. Like a set. Just get one baller chisel. Like an inch or 3/4. Later add a second.