I have about $300 to
: spend and would like to get a good bench chisel set for
: multi-purpose use. I will probably also buy a few mortice
: chisels for banging out mortices. Mostly what I do with chisels
: is paring work.

: So- I am open discussion here. I have looked at Three Cherries, Lie
: Nielsen, Veritas, Ashley Isles... pretty much all of 'em! I have
: also considered going with Japanese chisels, but I am a little
: worried about spending that much money until I try them out and
: see if I like the Japanese style chisels. I would like to hear
: what you have tried and what you recommend that I could get a
: good set of 6 or more in the $300 range.
Most all of my chisels are older, so I don't have much experience with the current offerings.
I'm not a real fan of sets of chisels, except for mortise chisels, where it really helps if you have the right size.
I've got a set of Sorby mortise chisels which are tough and hold an edge. Lots of pounding on them over the years.
For paring applications, add the Luthiers Mercantile chisels to your list.
http://www.lmii.com/CartTwo/thirdproducts.asp?CategoryName=Chisels+%26+Gouges&NameProdHeader=LMI+Chisels
I have some of those and they are fantastic for paring and fine work. The 18 deg bevel angle won't stand for rough treatment.
The LMI handle shape (designed by the late David Lewis) is very comfortable for paring. People who recommend iron-hooped chisels for paring must have much tougher hands than me. For general purpose chisels that may be hammered, I prefer something with a plastic handle like the Marples or the older red-handle Stanleys. It sounds like you will be set for rough-use chisels once you refurbish your present ones?
I have a few Veritas tools (planes) and they are excellent; I wouldn't hesitate buying Veritas chisels.
Actually, I've hardly ever (in 35+ yrs) bought a LeeValley product that didn't perform as advertised, and was good value.
I have some Ashley Isles and Henry Taylor carving tools (gouges) and they are excellent.

Japanese chisels (and Lie Nielsen) are too pricey for me, and I'm a bit hesitant about the hollow back on Japanese blades as well.