Chopstick Master: CSMv1 vs. CSMv2 – Key Differences

Created by Gabriel Izzo, Modified on Mon, 18 May at 7:58 PM by Gabriel Izzo

Chopstick Master · Comparison

CSMv1 vs. CSMv2 — Key Differences

The Harvey Chopstick Master has evolved with the release of the Gen. 2 model, offering improved portability, simplified design, and enhanced usability — especially for travel, classrooms, and teaching environments. Below is a detailed comparison to help you decide which version suits your needs.

Chopstick Master CSMv1 Gen. 1

Chopstick Master CSMv2 Gen. 2

Full Comparison Table

Feature	CSMv1 — Gen. 1	CSMv2 — Gen. 2
Plane / Iron	HP-8 style mini block plane iron (PI-HP8)	Same as Gen. 1
Honing Guide	HG30-CSM included	HG30-CSM included
Sled / Guide System	Plastic depth skid only on the planing jig	Adds pivoting sled for skew (angled) planing
Table Support Hook	Larger orange aluminum hook	Smaller redesigned plastic hook — more compact
Chopstick Styles	Chinese & Japanese styles	Same capability — Red (Chinese style) arm only included
Inserts Included	Red + Green included. Blue sold separately.	Red included. Green & Blue sold separately.
Diamond Finial	Dedicated saw blade (SB-CSM)	Pivoting plane sled — no saw blade needed
Chopstick Tip	Red arm: 5mm (Chinese style) · Green arm: 3.5mm (Japanese style)	Red arm: 5mm (Chinese style) · Green arm: 3.5mm (Japanese style, optional)
Box / Portability	Standard box size	~Half the volume of Gen. 1 — carry-on friendly
Accessories	10 blanks + sleeves, wedges, pencil, oil bottle, HG30-CSM, saw blade (SB-CSM)	10 blanks + sleeves, wedges, pencil, oil bottle, HG30-CSM, plane sled
Manual	PDFCSMv1 Manual↗	PDFCSMv2 Manual↗

Summary & Practical Takeaways

Functionality

Both versions can produce Chinese and Japanese-style chopsticks. However, the CSMv2 omits the green (Japanese) insert by default — it must be purchased separately.

Finial Shaping

Gen. 1 uses a small saw blade to cut diamond-shaped finials. Gen. 2 achieves the same result using a pivoting plane sled — removing sharp tools and enhancing safety.

Design & Portability

Gen. 2 is lighter, more compact, and carry-on/travel-friendly. Finial components disassemble with a single thumbscrew for quick storage. The saw blade was eliminated to simplify travel compliance and improve safety for children and classroom use. Gen. 2 ships in a box roughly half the volume of Gen. 1.

Included vs. Optional Components

Gen. 2 ships with fewer inserts and accessories but supports the same functionality through optional add-ons. If you want a more complete out-of-the-box experience, Gen. 1 may be the better fit.

Chopstick Dimensions

Red ArmProduces a 5mm tip diameter — Chinese style. Included with both Gen. 1 and Gen. 2.

Green ArmProduces a 3.5mm tip diameter — Japanese style. Included with Gen. 1; sold separately for Gen. 2.

Blue ArmFlat stock planing arm for Kumiko & inlay work. Sold separately for both models.

Which Should I Choose?

CSMv1 — Gen. 1

Best for users who want an all-in-one kit with the saw blade, both chopstick inserts, and Kumiko-capable Japanese blade included out of the box.

CSMv2 — Gen. 2

Best for travelers, schools, and casual hobbyists who prioritize portability, safety, and a compact footprint — with add-ons available as needed.

Still not sure which model is right for you? Please contact our support team — we're happy to help.