In the small village of Bystrice in the Czech Republic, the Narex factory has been making world-class edge tools for 100 years. The Narex factory was founded in 1919 by Mr. Vaclav Richter, a local blacksmith who began producing chisels and gimlets. To this day, Narex is best known for making an extensive range of high-quality, reasonably priced bench chisels. While the Narex factory has modernized a great deal over the past century, it still retains many traditional manufacturing methods. Chisels are still produced in the original Bystrice factory site using old-world drop-forging techniques, which greatly enhance the strength and durability of the steel. To commemorate its 100th anniversary, Narex developed the Richter Extra line of premium bench chisels—named after the company's founder—and has since expanded the range to include butt, paring, mortise, and socket chisels.
Due to their size, these chisels are robust and easy to control, making them ideal for a variety of fine woodworking tasks, even in the tightest spaces. This 4-piece set features 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", and 1" widths, each measuring nearly 7" in total length with a 2.25" long blade.
BLADES:
Richter chisel blades are made from the highest quality Chrome Vanadium (Cr-V) steel using traditional drop-forging methods. Blades are then hardened, cryogenically treated, and tempered to achieve a minimum hardness of 62 HRC. Subsequent fine-grinding and polishing ensure a mirror-like surface with ultra-thin sides allowing reach into very tight spaces, making them the perfect chisel for cleaning out dovetails. The front bevel is ground at 25 degrees.
CRYOGENIC TREATMENT:
Following initial hardening, cryogenic treatment is performed, which cools the steel down to −190° C (-310° F) using liquid nitrogen. This alters the mechanical properties of the steel at the molecular level, greatly increasing its strength, toughness, and wear resistance.
HANDLES:
Richter chisel handles are made of domestically and responsibly harvested European Ash known for its strength, toughness, and attractive grain. The ergonomic handles are sanded and then receive a friction shellac finish for maximum protection, comfort, and control. Solid stainless-steel ferrules protect the handles from splitting, and leather washers absorb the shock of mallet blows. Handles have a diameter of 1.25" and are around 3.30" long.
LIFETIME GUARANTEE:
Richter chisels come with a lifetime guarantee. In the case of a manufacturer defect in material, design, or construction, a free replacement or repair will be provided.
