When woodworkers compile their list of woodworking supplies and tools, a good set of woodworking chisels should be high on the list. These tools give you the ability to shape a piece of wood into almost anything you want.
Most woodwork shops have a bevel-edged chisel or two. However, if you have a complete set of chisels, and understand when and why to use them, you will be able to accomplish much more.
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Bevel-edged Chisel
The bevel-edged chisel, as mentioned above, is a common addition to the tool chest. It is sufficiently versatile that should finances prevent you from owning a complete set of chisels, a set of four bevel edged chisels in different sizes will fill the void.
The primary purpose of this tool is to finish joints. Because this type of chisel has a straight edge and beveled sides, you can reach into corners with little difficulty.
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Corner Chisel
As the name suggests, a corner chisel is used for shaping corners. It is more effective in corners than a bevel edged chisel because it has two cutting edges that are assembled in a L-shape configuration.
Paring Chisel
These woodwork tools are long and thin. This gives you a lot of control so you can perform precise work in small spaces.
Dovetail Chisel
You can use a standard bevel-edged chisel to make dovetail joints. However, a dovetail chisel makes the task easier. These tools have a triangular cross-section that performs the task admirably.
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Firmer Chisel
Woodworkers use firmer chisels to remove larger pieces of wood. They often strike the chisel with a mallet. These tools have a rectangular cross section that is thicker than the norm and affords greater strength.
Mortise Chisel
With this handy tool, you can remove substantial amounts of waste wood. Like the firmer chisel, the mortise chisel is intended to be struck with a mallet. This tool has straight sides but one edge is bevelled. The mortise chisel is particularly helpful for making mortise joints. A mortise joint is a type of joinery in which hole (a mortise) is cut to contain a stub (a tenon).
When making a mortise and tenon joint, it is important to measure and mark the area accurately before you start cutting.
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Skew Chisel
This woodwork tool has a cutting edge with a sixty degree angle. Woodworkers use it for planning and finishing surfaces, especially cylindrical pieces. Most skew chisels are rectangular, but oval shaped types are also available.
How to Choose a Good Set of Chisels
When you choose your set of chisels, understand that a good set should last a lifetime. You will need to sharpen them from time to time, but they should not break or otherwise fail. Even hitting them with a mallet should not do damage.
Although good chisels are more costly than less good chisels, they are worth the expense. The most important factor to look for when choosing quality chisels is the material from which they are made. The better the quality, the less likely to break and the longer you can go without sharpening them.
Many woodworkers favor imported Japanese chisels. These tools have a slightly different shape, but they are known for high quality and in most countries, are readily available. They are somewhat more costly than western made chisels, but are top quality.
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In most cases, they are comprised of laminated steel, meaning they will stay sharp longer. On the downside, they are prone to chipping more readily, so you may want to consider that point when selecting your woodworking supplies.
