Different Types of Wood Chisels and Their Uses

What is a Wood Chisel?

A wood chisel is a tool with a sharp blade designed for shaping, carving, and cutting wood. It typically features a wooden or plastic handle for grip and a beveled edge to allow for precise and controlled cutting. Wood chisels are essential tools in woodworking for creating detailed cuts and fine adjustments.

Parts of a Wood Chisel

Before you start using a chisel, it's good to know the parts:

1. Handle: This is where you hold the chisel. It’s usually made of wood or plastic.

2. Blade: This sharp part cuts the wood.

3. Bevel: This is the slanted edge of the blade. It helps the chisel slice through wood.

4. Ferrule: A small metal ring that strengthens the handle and stops it from splitting.

5 Tang or Socket: Connects the blade to the handle, keeping the chisel firm and secure.

Common Types of Wood Chisels

Here are the most common chisels you’ll find in woodworking. Each one does a different job.

Bevel Edge Chisel:

Ideal for working in tight spaces and making angled cuts.

Firmer Chisel:

Strong with a square edge, perfect for heavy-duty cuts and rough shaping.

Mortise Chisel:

Designed for chopping out square holes, especially useful for joinery work.

Paring Chisel:

Thin and long, perfect for fine, smooth slicing and precise carving.

Bench Chisel:

A general-purpose tool, perfect for beginners as it’s easy to use and works for most tasks.

Corner Chisel:

Designed to clean and refine corners, especially in mortise joints.

Slick Chisel:

Large and wide, it’s ideal for smoothing and carving large wooden surfaces quickly.

Woodworking chisels like these give you full control over shaping wood by hand.

How to Use a Wood Chisel

Using a chisel the right way makes your work easy and safe. Follow these simple tips:

Hold the handle with a firm grip
Tap it with a mallet, not a regular hammer
Cut with the bevel facing up
Always push the blade away from your body
Start with light cuts and go slow

If you're working with soft material or carving details, try using a chisel for wood with a chisel flat surface for clean cuts.

Tips to Take Care of Your Chisels

Good tools last longer when you take care of them. Here’s how:

Keep them sharp: A dull blade is harder to use and less safe

Clean them after use: Wipe off dust and moisture

Store them safely: Use blade covers and keep them in a dry place