This Japanese chisel was hand forged by Yoshiro Usui, the 4th generation in the Sukemaru, a skilled blacksmith known for his excellent high speed steel chisels. These are made from solid HSS and are considerably thinner than typical Japanese chisels, making them better suited to fine and delicate work like cleaning up dovetails. HSS provides a sharp edge that is very difficult to dull or chip, making it a great choice for North American and European hardwoods – it holds a sharp edge much longer than white or blue paper steel. It’s also great for abrasive or dirty woods, as well as other materials like MDF, various plastics, etc. Condition: The set is in excellent, near-new condition, this was a new set that I set up and barely used. The backs have been flattened and they were sharpened to 8000 grit on Shapton Glass stones. The hoops have been set and the handles mushroomed. The style is Oire Nomi, otherwise known as standard bench chisels. This style of chisel is meant for general-purpose use and is suitable for carpentry and cabinetry work. With a metal hoop to prevent splitting of the wood handle, it is meant to be hit with a genno or metal hammer. Length: 215mm 8 1/2. Blacksmith: – 4th generation Sukemaru – Yoshiro Usui. Hard Steel: High Speed Steel (HSS). Style: Oire Nomi (bench chisel). Handle Wood: Made by a skilled handle maker (stamped with the maker’s name) from. Hoop Style: Hammer finish.