10 Best Lathe Chisels 2026 in the United States

The Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set includes eight high-speed steel (HSS) chisels, making it a solid choice for woodturners who want durable, sharp tools. The blades are made from HSS, known for holding an edge longer than regular steel, which means less frequent sharpening. These chisels come with wooden handles that provide a traditional feel and good grip, though some users might prefer modern materials for extra comfort or durability.

The set features a 3/4" roughing gouge among others, covering common turning needs with blade lengths ranging from 16 to 19 inches, suitable for a variety of lathe projects. The chisels come in one size each, so there might be limited options for very fine or specialized work. Since sharpening is not included, users will need to have or acquire sharpening equipment and skills to maintain the tools.

This set is well suited for hobbyists or intermediate turners who want a dependable starter kit with classic materials and reliable steel quality but may not be the best fit for those needing a wider variety of specialized chisels or ergonomic handles.

The Hurricane Turning Tools 16 Piece Master Set offers a broad range of woodturning chisels made from high-speed alloy and carbon steel, which are known for good sharpness retention and durability. The chisels come with ash wood handles, providing a comfortable and traditional grip, though some users might prefer a different handle material for extra shock absorption. This set includes many common types of chisels such as bowl gouges, spindle gouges, scrapers, parting tools, and skew chisels, making it a versatile choice for beginners or hobbyists looking to handle various woodturning tasks without needing additional tools.

The sizes range from small precise tools to larger roughing gouges, allowing both detailed work and bulk shaping. The blades have straight edges and are ready for sharpening, which is essential to maintain their cutting performance over time. The set weighs around 10 pounds, which might be somewhat heavy for easy transport but reflects the solid build quality.

Customer reviews give it a rating of about 4.1 out of 5, indicating general satisfaction with minor concerns such as handle finish or blade setup. This set represents a solid option for those seeking a comprehensive starter or upgrade kit for wood lathe projects, offering good steel quality and sufficient variety to cover most turning needs without unnecessary complexity.

The Robert Sorby 67HS 6 Piece Lathe Turning Set is a well-regarded choice for both beginners and experienced woodturners. Crafted with high-speed steel blades, it provides excellent durability and sharpness, making it suitable for a variety of projects. This set includes essential tools like a spindle roughing gouge, bowl gouge, skew chisel, parting tool, and round nose scraper, covering diverse turning needs.

One of the standout features is the handle made of ash wood, which not only gives a comfortable grip but also feels sturdy in hand. Weighing about 6.4 lbs and with dimensions that make it manageable, it is relatively easy to handle during extended use.

There are a few areas to consider. While the high-speed steel is great for sharpness, it may require regular sharpening to maintain its edge, especially for heavy-duty use. The set may also be a bit limited for those seeking specialized tools beyond the basic offerings provided. Additionally, the price point, while reasonable for the quality, might be a consideration for hobbyists or those just starting out who may want to explore more budget-friendly options.

The Robert Sorby 67HS set is a solid investment for anyone serious about woodturning, balancing quality and usability. Yet, it may not fully meet the needs of users looking for a wider range of specialized chisels or those unwilling to invest in regular tool maintenance.