Robert Sorby

Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set

#1 in Best Wood Turning Tools 2026

M2 HSS steel
5-piece set
Ash handles
UK made

Sponsored link · confirm price and availability on Amazon · updated October 16, 2026

On this page

Is the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set ranks #1 in our Best Wood Turning Tools 2026 list (best overall). Its biggest strength: robert Sorby is the premier UK turning tool manufacturer -- the standard against which all others are measured. The main caveat: very high price per set.

Overview

What the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set does well

Best overall wood turning tool set. Its case rests on robert Sorby is the premier UK turning tool manufacturer -- the standard against which all others are measured and m2 high-speed steel holds an edge longer than standard carbon steel turning tools. One caveat, very high price per set.

Specs that matter

Key features

M2 HSS steel
5-piece set
Ash handles
UK made

The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

Robert Sorby is the premier UK turning tool manufacturer -- the standard against which all others are measured
M2 high-speed steel holds an edge longer than standard carbon steel turning tools
The 5-piece set covers the essential turning shapes: spindle gouge, bowl gouge, skew chisel, parting tool, scraper
Ash handles are the traditional turning handle material -- balanced and durable

Cons

Very high price per set
Available primarily from specialty turning suppliers

Fit check

Should you buy the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set?

Think twice if this matters to you

Very high price per set
Available primarily from specialty turning suppliers

Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

List	Rank
Best Wood Turning Tools 2026· Best Overall	#1 / 8

Cross-shop

Alternatives to the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Best CarbidePSI Woodworking
PSI Woodworking LXPMSET Lathe Woodturning Ultra Carbide Chisel System
- Carbide insert
- Replaceable tip
View on Amazon See details
Best ValueGreatNeck
GreatNeck 800 8-Piece Wood Turning Set
- 8-piece set
- Carbon steel
View on Amazon See details
Best Bowl GougeCrown Tools
Crown 242 1/2-Inch Bowl Gouge, 14-Inch Handle
- 1/2-inch flute
- M2 HSS
View on Amazon See details

Head-to-head

Compared with

Buying advice: woodworking

Clamps, a combination square, a good saw and a drill cover most beginner projects.
You can never have too many. Bar clamps handle wide glue-ups; quick-grip clamps are fast for smaller work.
Standard wood glue suits indoor projects. Water-resistant glue suits outdoor work and cutting boards.
Oils are easy to apply and repair. Polyurethane and varnish protect tabletops and floors better.
Eye and hearing protection and dust collection matter from the first project. Lay oily rags flat to dry to prevent fires.

Read the full guides

Answers

Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set: common questions

Is the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set worth buying?

Who is the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set best for?

Based on our research it suits buyers who want the best overall package. It's ranked #1 of 8 in our Best Wood Turning Tools 2026 list.

What are the downsides of the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: very high price per set; available primarily from specialty turning suppliers.

What are the key features of the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set?

M2 HSS steel, 5-piece set, Ash handles and UK made.

What are the best alternatives to the Robert Sorby H6542 Turning Tool Set?

Worth comparing: PSI Woodworking LXPMSET Lathe Woodturning Ultra Carbide Chisel System, GreatNeck 800 8-Piece Wood Turning Set and Crown 242 1/2-Inch Bowl Gouge, 14-Inch Handle. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.