Description
Narex “Profi” range HSS turning chisels are high-quality hand tools designed to meet the needs of both demanding active hobbyists and professional turners. These chisels represent Narex’s commitment to quality and traditional European tool making, giving reliable performance in all kinds of turning projects.
The key feature of these chisels is their blade material: high-grade HSS high-speed steel (High-Speed Steel). HSS steel has a significant advantage over traditional carbon steel, as it withstands considerably higher temperatures without losing its hardening. Turning generates a lot of heat from friction, and thanks to the HSS material, the blade stays sharp longer even at high speeds and when working demanding hardwoods. This reduces the need for sharpening and makes work more efficient.
Comfort is ensured by an ergonomically shaped wooden handle. The handles are made of a durable wood (typically lacquered beech), and their shape gives a firm, stable grip, which is critical for precise, safe turning. The joint between the handle and the metal blade is reinforced with a sturdy metal ring (ferrule), which adds to the structural durability of the tool and stops the handle from splitting under stress.
Intended use:
These chisels are intended for use on a wood lathe.
- Versatile woodworking: Thanks to the durability of the HSS blade, the tools are excellent for turning various wood materials, from soft softwoods to hard, abrasive hardwoods.
- Demanding use: The “Profi” rating means that the tools are designed to withstand regular, demanding use and keep their performance for a long time.
Features:
- High-quality HSS blade: High-speed steel gives superior wear resistance and heat tolerance compared with traditional carbon steel chisels.
- Long edge life: The blade stays sharp longer, which reduces the number of sharpenings and makes work flow better.
- Ergonomic wooden handle: The shaped handle (e.g. beech) is comfortable in the hand and gives excellent control of the tool.
- Reinforced construction: A sturdy metal ferrule at the end of the handle supports the blade fixing and adds durability.
- Professional level: Part of Narex’s high-quality “Profi” product line.
Technical specifications:
- Blade material: HSS (High-Speed Steel / high-speed steel)
- Handle material: Lacquered wood (typically beech)
- Product line: Profi
- Country of manufacture: Czech Republic
Maintenance and sharpening:
Although HSS steel holds its edge considerably longer than traditional materials, regular sharpening is essential for the best finish and safe working. A blunt tool leaves a rough finish and increases the risk of accidents at work.
HSS blades can be sharpened with the usual methods for turning chisels, such as a bench grinder with a grinding wheel suitable for turning tools (e.g. aluminium oxide). Although HSS withstands heat well, it is best to avoid overheating the blade (turning it blue) when sharpening. Store the tools in a dry place to prevent rust. The wooden handle can be cleaned and re-treated with a suitable wood preservative if needed.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
Why choose an HSS chisel instead of an ordinary carbon steel chisel?
The biggest advantage is the ability of HSS steel (high-speed steel) to withstand the high temperatures generated by friction during turning. HSS does not lose its hardening when it heats up, unlike carbon steel. This means the blade stays sharp much longer, especially when turning hardwoods, which saves time on sharpening.
Are these chisels ready to use straight out of the box?
Most professional turning chisels come with a basic sharpening, but many experienced turners like to fine-tune the bevel angle and sharpening to their own preferences and use before the first demanding job.
