Wood Chisel Basics Explained

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Chisels are a type of hand tool that is used for cutting and shaping wood. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, iron, and carbon fiber. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of chisels available on the market, as well as the basics of how to use them!

What Are Chisels And What Are They Used For?

Chisels are one of the most basic and essential tools in any woodworker’s arsenal. A chisel is simply a metal blade with a sharpened edge, used for cutting or shaping wood. Chisels come in a variety of sizes and shapes, each designed for a specific purpose.

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Getting Started with a Chisel | Ask This Old House

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Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains basic chiseling techniques.

Types Of Chisels

Chisels are one of the most versatile and commonly used tools in woodworking, carpentry, and other construction projects. There are many different types and sizes of chisels available on the market, but they can broadly be classified into four main categories:

BENCH CHISEL – As the name suggests, bench chisels are designed to be used while working at a bench. They are available in a variety of sizes, but the most common is the ¼ inch chisel.

PARING CHISEL – Paring chisels are smaller than bench chisels and are designed for more delicate work. They are often used in conjunction with other tools, such as hammers or mallets, to create detailed shapes or patterns.

CARVING CHISEL – Carving chisels are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes to suit different carving projects. The most common types are the v-tool, gouge, and skew chisel.

MORTISE CHISEL – Mortise chisels are used to create mortises, or rectangular holes, in wood. They are available in different sizes to suit the size of the mortise being created.

TANG CHISEL – Tang chisels have a tang, or metal extension, that fits into a wooden handle. They are available in different sizes and shapes to suit different needs.

SOCKET CHISEL – Socket chisels have a metal socket, or extension, that fits into a wooden handle. They are available in different sizes and shapes to suit different needs.


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Wood Chisels and Their Uses

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Chisels come in many shapes and sizes and know how and where to use them will help you work more efficiently and safer.

Tips And Tricks For Using A Chisel 

Chisels are one of the most versatile and essential tools in any woodworker’s arsenal. Whether you’re carving out a mortise or shaping a tenon, a chisel can help you get the job done quickly and accurately. But if you’ve never used one before, the prospect of using a chisel can be daunting.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get started:

-Start by sharpening your chisel. A dull chisel is more likely to slip, which can damage both your workpiece and the chisel itself. 

-When using a chisel, always use a wooden mallet or plastic hammer. Hitting a chisel with a metal hammer can damage the edge.

-To avoid tear-out, always start your cuts in the middle of the workpiece and work towards the edges.

-When cutting across the grain, use a light touch and go slowly. For best results, use a sharpening stone to keep your chisel nice and sharp.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to use a chisel like a pro in no time. So get out there and start carving!


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