Wood Chisel
A wood chisel is a metal wedge with a handle used to cut and shape wood. The wedge is driven into the wood by striking the back of the chisel with a mallet. The tool’s beveled edge splits apart the fibers of the wood, cutting loose a chip of wood from your workpiece.
This slow and precise method can be used to carve joints for cabinet making or furniture building, to install hinges or striking plates on doors, or to clear material for joinery.
Chisel Types
Bench chisel - The most common chisel found on a workbench, thus its name. The beveled edge is suitable for cutting dovetail and mortise-and-tenon joints.
25° beveled edge on the front of the blade
Mortise chisel - Leading edge is stronger. Chops mortises, which are holes that receive tenons.
30° bevel and 90° edge
Paring chisel - Great for paring end grains and softwoods. It has a long handle for better control.
Primary bevel has a low level (e.g., 17°)