A set of decent chisels is likely to become any woodworker’s best friends. They need to be sharp and sturdy, and having a range of sizes and styles will ensure you’re using the correct tool for the job.

 

Quality

A chisel should be sturdy enough to withstand being struck with a mallet so ensure you are using a quality tool. Its handle should perfectly match the weight of the blade and should feel right when you pick it up. It’s also important to have sharp chisels because less effort is then needed for them to cut, making you more efficient in your work. This also makes them safer as there’s less chance of slippage.

Bevel-edged chisels

A bevel edge is not perpendicular to the faces of the piece, and this shape can help in joint cutting, especially when cutting dovetails. Bevel-edged chisels are a great choice for a workshop as both long edges will have a bevel ground on, making them a versatile tool. However, as the blades thin there is potential for the blade to snap.

Pairing chisels

The ideal tool for making dado joints in home improvement projects is the pairing chisel. It has a bevel-edge and is longer than other chisels which makes them more delicate. They’re not to be used with a mallet, which gives an indication of the kind of intricate work that they should be used for.

Cranked pairing chisel

On a cranked pairing chisel the handle is offset from the blade which makes it perfect for those hard- to-reach areas. It can be used flat on the wood surface, As the Cutting edge is ground it can give an outside cut.

Size of blade

Narrow chisels are easier to control, and great for delicate work such as cabinetmaking. For carpentry and joinery work choose a heavier, firmer chisel with a larger blade. A sturdier chisel is best for chopping mortises or working with lumber as its thicker blade helps to absorb shock when striking.

Mortisers

For the more experienced woodworker, the mortiser enables you to chop accurate mortises efficiently. The mortising head is lowered with a level and the chisel cuts a square hole into the workpiece. The chisel is hollow which allows the auger bit rotating inside to bore out the waste material.

Chisel sets

Chisel sets are a sound investment because you’ll always have the right tool for the job and make a saving when buying in a set. Popular blade sizes in sets are 12mm (1/2 inch), 19mm (3/4 inch) and 25mm (1 inch). Ensure they are bevel-edged, sharpened and honed and have a steel striking cap.

View our range of power tool chisels here.