Chisels

Chisels are essential for chopping, paring and cleaning joinery.  High quality steel holds a keen edge, while hardwood or synthetic handles provide a comfortable grip.  Choose bevel edge chisels for general work, mortise chisels for deep joints, dovetail chisels for tight corners and skew chisels for finishing.

What are chisels used for?
Chisels are cutting tools used to shape, pare, and clean wood, stone, or metal, depending on the type. In woodworking, they’re essential for creating joints, removing waste, carving details, and refining surfaces. Common applications include mortise and tenon joints, dovetails, and fine trimming work.

What types of woodworking chisels are available and how do they differ?

• Bevel edge chisels – versatile for joinery and clean access into corners

• Mortise chisels – thick and strong for chopping deep rectangular holes

• Paring chisels – long and thin for delicate, controlled trimming

• Firmer chisels – robust general-purpose chisels with straight sides

• Carving chisels – specialised for detailed sculpting and relief work
  Choosing the right chisel depends on your task, material, and level of control required.

How do I maintain chisels for sharp, safe performance?

• Sharpen regularly using sharpening stones, guides, or honing systems

• Keep the bevel angle consistent—usually 25°–30° for most woodworking chisels

• Store chisels with edge guards or in a tool roll to avoid damage and injury

• Avoid prying or twisting, and use a mallet (not a hammer) to strike wooden-handled chisels
  A well-maintained chisel delivers cleaner cuts, greater control, and longer tool life.