How to Choose the Right Chisel

Wood chisels fit into places a saw can't reach. Chisels can be used by being tapped lightly with a mallet or be worked by hand.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Butt Chisels
• Cold Chisels
• Deep-mortise Chisels
• Firmer Chisels
• Mortise Chisels
• Paring Chisels

1. Buy a set of four chisels with 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1-inch wide blades for most work.

2. Use a firmer chisel with beveled edges for general use.

3. Make precise cuts with a paring chisel.

4. Trim wood and make notches with a butt chisel.

5. Cut a mortise or any other square hole with a mortise or deep-mortise chisel.

6. Use a cold chisel for cutting metals. Don't ever use a wood chisel on metal.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use your chisel as a pry bar or wedge because you can damage the cutting edge.