Chisels

About Chisels

Chisels are fundamental hand tools for precision cutting, shaping, and material removal across woodworking, metalworking, and masonry applications. Featuring a sharp cutting edge and robust handle, these versatile tools enable tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts to tackle everything from delicate joinery and dovetails to heavy-duty mortising and site work. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range including bevel edge chisels for fine woodworking, practical chisel knives for multi-purpose applications, and complete chisel sets that provide excellent value and coverage across multiple blade widths.

Quality chisels combine hardened steel blades that maintain sharp edges with ergonomic handles designed for comfort during extended use. Whether you're a professional carpenter fitting intricate joints, a cabinet maker crafting bespoke furniture, or a homeowner tackling weekend projects, investing in reliable chisels from trusted brands like Stanley, Bahco, and Irwin ensures precision, durability, and professional results across all your cutting and shaping tasks.

Applications

Chisels serve essential functions across numerous trades and projects:

• Carpenters and joiners – mortise and tenon joints, hinge fitting, door hanging, and general site work
• Cabinet makers – precision joinery, dovetail joints, and fine furniture construction
• Woodworkers and turners – shaping, carving, paring, and detailed finishing work
• Builders and renovation specialists – removing old fixtures, cleaning joints, and restoration work
• Shop fitters and installers – precise fitting and modification of components
• Stonemasons – shaping stone and concrete using specialist masonry chisels
• DIY enthusiasts – home improvement projects, furniture assembly, and hobby woodworking
• Boat builders – traditional marine joinery and boat construction

Choosing The Right Chisels

Intended Use: Bevel edge chisels excel at detailed joinery and accessing tight corners, whilst firmer chisels handle heavier material removal. For varied applications, chisel sets from MyToolShed.co.uk provide versatility across multiple widths.

Blade Quality: Look for high-carbon or chrome-vanadium steel blades that are properly hardened and tempered. Quality chisels hold their edge longer and can be resharpened repeatedly, making them worthwhile investments for both professionals and serious DIYers.

Handle Design: Ergonomic handles reduce fatigue during extended use. Traditional wooden handles offer excellent feel, whilst modern composite materials provide impact resistance. For mallet work, ensure handles feature striking caps to prevent damage.

Blade Widths: Common widths range from 6mm to 38mm. Typical sets include 6mm, 12mm, 18mm, and 25mm sizes, covering most general applications whilst providing better value than purchasing individually.

Professional vs DIY: Professional tradespeople benefit from premium chisels that withstand daily use, whilst DIY users achieve excellent results with quality mid-range options from reputable manufacturers.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses to protect against flying chips and debris. Keep blades sharp – dull chisels require excessive force and are more likely to slip, causing injury. Chisel away from your body with hands behind the cutting edge, and secure workpieces firmly using clamps or a vice rather than holding by hand. Store chisels with blade guards or in protective rolls to prevent accidental contact with sharp edges and protect cutting edges from damage. Only strike chisels with mallets unless they feature metal striking caps specifically designed for hammer use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between bevel edge and firmer chisels?

Bevel edge chisels have angled sides allowing access into tight corners and acute angles, making them ideal for dovetail joints and fine cabinetwork. Firmer chisels feature flat sides and thicker blades, providing greater strength for heavier work and mortising. Most woodworkers find bevel edge chisels more versatile for everyday tasks.

Are chisel sets better value than individual chisels?

Chisel sets typically offer better value and ensure you have appropriate widths for various tasks. They usually include protective cases for organised storage and transport. Individual chisels suit those needing to replace specific sizes or add specialist types to existing collections.

How do I maintain my chisels?

Keep blades sharp through regular honing using sharpening stones or honing guides. Clean and dry blades after use, applying a light coating of oil to prevent rust. Store in a dry environment with blade guards fitted. Sharp, well-maintained chisels cut cleanly with controlled pressure, providing better results and safer operation than dull tools.