Recommended Chisel sets?

[mdwilliams999]

I have been turning pens for about a year with a skew and gouge and a woodchuck. I have just started experimenting with turning bowls and will need to buy a set to better turn bowls and achieve the proper angles.

I know there are many brands out there and in their own right they might all do a pretty good job is sharpened and used properly. I also here that HSS or M2 HSS is a good way to go.

I was wondering if anyone would like to recommend some brands or sets that would be a good balance of quality and price with no buyer remorse 3-6 months later. I guess I would compare it to saying I think I like golf enough to get rid of my used set of Wilson's from a garage sale and someone claims that the only way to go is to buy custom Ping clubs for $2,000. On the otherhand, I don't think I would be buying a set of chisels from Harbor Freight for $60.

Just looking for some sound practical advise.

Thanks,
Mike

 

[The Penguin]

you can do a lot with a 1/2" bowl gouge and a round nose scraper

if you're going to do smaller bowls, a 3/8" gouge.

 

[ssajn]

In my opinion you can't go wrong with Thompson tools.
Start with a 1/2". My next bowl gouge will be a 5/8" U.
Thompson Lathe Tools

 

[KenV]

Doug Thompson sells good steel. So does Dave at D-Way.

D-Way Tools - Fine Woodturnings by Dave

3/8 or 1/2 inch diameter shank (american measure vs British measure) is good to start.

 

[glycerine]

If you grind down your pitching wedge a little, it makes a great skew! 2 for 1, golf club AND lathe chisel! :biggrin: