Thread: Record chisels

Made in China sold by Hare n Forbes. I have a roughing gouge and the HSS is better than most Chinese. I would say they are on a par with many other well-known brands. But I would not compare it Hamlet 2060 or Thompson etc

Entry level, good for learning how to sharpen with and for 1 off grinds.

Useless in most gums and acacia's, the edge lasts for seconds, hence the sharpening practice.

I have 5 of them three came with a bundle that I brought and the other two I brought at the right price I have no problems with them but then I suspect that they are older tools all be it HSS.

I bought my set of Record chisels in 1996. They are stamped with Sheffield England. They have been superb. The large bowl gouge is the only chisel I have used up. The 25mm skew is 1/2 gone, the rest are in great condition. I mainly use the big P & N for the desert burls and hardest timbers, but mainly as the handles on the record are smaller than I need, but the records have been brilliant. Maybe purchased before they moved to China????
Willy

Thanks for the replies, I was just looking into different types and with P&N not making woodturning chisels anymore I was looking to the future when I have to change.

Like so many brand name tools, the quality has declined with off-shore manufacture. The old Sheffield made chisels were as good as any, though the handles were a little short for my liking. The new ones leave a lot to be desired in edge retention.

Originally Posted by rustynail

Like so many brand name tools, the quality has declined with off-shore manufacture. The old Sheffield made chisels were as good as any, though the handles were a little short for my liking. The new ones leave a lot to be desired in edge retention.

Further, I always find the European chisel handles are too short, , too small diameter and they are a lightweight, soft wood. I don't think think I have overly large hands, but that's why I prefer to make my own handles.
Willy

[QUOTE=Willy Nelson;2075832]Further, I always find the European chisel handles are too short, , too small diameter and they are a lightweight, soft wood. I don't think think I have overly large hands, but that's why I prefer to make my own handles.

I agree with you Willy I always make my own handles as well and have got quite used to the way they feel.

Yes, agree on the home made handles. Variances also helps identify the required tool, no matter which end you are looking at.

I have a couple of their bowl gouges from my early years of turning.

Don't try to put a swept back grind on them. The flute has parallel sides (not tapered to the top) and the shaving get stuck in it very easily, jammed easily.