Chisels Guide
Size
The size of the chisel will determine its versatility and the range of tasks it is suitable for. Smaller chisels, such as the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisels, are ideal for delicate and detailed work. These chisels range in size from 1/8-inch to 1-1/2-inch, allowing for excellent maneuverability in tight spaces. For more general woodworking tasks, a medium-sized chisel like the Narex 863010 Wood Line Plus Chisel Set is a great choice. The set includes chisels ranging from 6 mm to 26 mm, providing flexibility for a variety of woodworking projects. Larger chisels, such as the Irwin Marples M373 Bevel Edge Wood Chisel, are perfect for heavier duty tasks that require more force. These chisels are available in sizes up to 4 inches, allowing for efficient material removal in larger areas. Keep in mind the tasks you will be using the chisel for to determine the appropriate size for your needs.
Material
Different materials offer varying levels of durability, hardness, and longevity. High-carbon steel chisels, like the Stanley Bailey Sweetheart Chisels, are known for their ability to hold a keen edge for a longer period. Their blades are constructed from hardened chrome carbon steel, which not only ensures resilience, but also makes them less prone to chipping or breaking. Another option is Japanese chisels, made from high-quality tool steel, which are renowned for their exceptional sharpness and lifespan. These chisels often feature blades made using the traditional hand-forging method, resulting in a fine grained steel edge that can preserve its sharpness even through demanding tasks. Consider brands like Narex, which offers affordable chisels manufactured from carbon manganese steel for durability and precision. Paso woodworking chisel set provides excellent value with three different width blades all made of chrome vanadium steel.
It's worth mentioning that there are also specialized chisels made from other materials, such as titanium chisels designed for use in non-ferrous metalwork. These chisels feature titanium-nitride coated blades, providing corrosion resistance while retaining strength and sharpness. However, it's essential to note that titanium chisels are not meant for woodworking applications and are more suited for metal- or stoneworking projects.
Handle design
The handle plays a crucial role in providing a comfortable grip and control while using the chisel. Look for handles that are ergonomically designed with a contoured shape to fit the hand comfortably and prevent slippage during use. Additionally, consider the material of the handle as it can affect the overall durability and longevity of the chisel. One example of a chisel with excellent handle design is the Stanley 16-041 FatMax Thru Tang Wood Chisel. It features a bi-material handle with a rubberized grip for improved control and reduced hand fatigue. Another option is the Irwin Marples M750 Splitproof Chisel Set, which comes with a ProTouch handle designed for maximum comfort and enhanced impact resistance.
Some chisels on the market can be grouped into different segments based on their handle design. One segment includes chisels with cushioned handles, which provide extra comfort and shock absorption during usage. The Narex 863010 Wood Chisels with Hornbeam Handles fall into this category, offering a comfortable grip with a hornbeam wood handle. Another segment consists of chisels with traditional wooden handles, such as the Robert Sorby 167 High-Speed Professional Bench Chisel. These chisels offer a classic design and are known for their natural beauty and durability. Lastly, another group is comprised of chisels with metal handles, like the Estwing ERC-12C 12-Inch Ultra Forged Chisel. These chisels feature a rugged metal handle that provides strength and stability for demanding tasks.
Blade width
The blade width determines the size of the cut and the overall versatility of the chisel. For detailed work or tight corners, a narrower blade width is preferable. On the other hand, a wider blade width is suitable for larger cuts or when removing large amounts of material.
In the market, chisels are available in various blade width options. For woodworking enthusiasts, the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Chisels offer a range of blade widths from 1/8 inch to 2 inch. These chisels feature a thin, high-carbon steel blade with a beveled edge, allowing for precise cuts and shaping. For those working with softer materials, such as light metals or softwoods, the Narex Richter Chisels have blade widths ranging from 4mm to 50mm. These chisels have a wider blade with a higher resistance to bending, providing durability and stability during heavy-duty tasks.
Considering the blade width is essential in selecting the right chisel that best suits your specific task and materials.
Blade sharpness
A sharp blade allows for precise and clean cuts, making your woodworking tasks easier and more efficient. Look for chisels with blades that are made from high-quality, hardened steel for durability and long-lasting sharpness. Some outstanding options in this category include the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Chisels, featuring beveled edges and a thin blade design for excellent maneuverability and precision. Another top choice is the Narex skew chisels, crafted with chrome-manganese steel blades that have been heat-treated to achieve a Rockwell hardness of 59. With their razor-sharp edges, these chisels ensure smooth and accurate cuts every time.
These chisels are available in various size options, with each size suitable for different woodworking applications. In the segment of bevel edge chisels, the Lie-Nielsen bevel edge chisels are highly recommended, boasting A2 tool steel blades that are hardened to 60-62 HRC for superb durability and edge retention. Precision-ground and ready to use straight from the box, these chisels facilitate precise mortise and joinery work. If you require high-performance skew chisels, the Ashley Iles diamond needle files fit the bill with their tapered design and choice of angles suitable for precise joinery, detail carving, and trimming tasks. These chisels stand out with their exceptional blade sharpness, making them indispensable tools for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Bevel angle
The bevel angle is the angle formed between the bevel and the face of the chisel. A higher bevel angle allows for more controlled cutting and greater strength while chopping, making it suitable for heavy-duty woodworking tasks. On the other hand, a lower bevel angle delivers a sharper cutting edge, enabling finer and more delicate work, such as precision joinery and carving.
For those looking for chisels with a higher bevel angle, the Narex Richter Cryo-Treated Bevel-Edged Chisels has a bevel angle of 30 degrees, providing excellent durability and impact resistance. Alternatively, the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisels offers a slightly lower bevel angle of 25 degrees, perfect for general woodworking tasks with its high-strength carbon chrome steel construction. If you require chisels with a lower bevel angle for intricate carving and fine joinery, the Ashley Iles Bevel Edged Cabinetmakers Chisels feature a 20-degree bevel angle and are handmade from beautifully polished high-carbon chrome vanadium steel.
Blade length
Blade length refers to the measurement from the tip of the chisel to the base of the handle. The ideal blade length depends on the type of projects you will be working on.
For detailed and intricate woodworking projects, a shorter blade length is recommended. A suitable option for this would be the Stanley Sharpe Edge Chisel Set with blade lengths ranging from 1/8 inch to 1 inch. These chisels feature high carbon chrome steel blades that provide excellent edge retention and durability.
For larger woodworking projects that require more power and leverage, a longer blade length is preferable. The Stanley Classic Boxed Chisel Set is a great choice, featuring blade lengths from 1/2 inch to 1-1/4 inches. These chisels have hardened and tempered blades for increased strength and longer lifespan.
Another option is specialized chisels designed for specific tasks. For carving intricate designs, the Two Cherries 6-Piece Chisel Set in Box is worth consideration. This set includes a variety of blade lengths ranging from 1/8 inch to 1 inch, allowing for versatility in carving tasks. These chisels are hand-forged from high carbon steel and feature ergonomically designed octagonal handles for optimal grip and control.
Blade hardness
Blade hardness refers to the material's ability to withstand tough tasks without dulling or chipping. Higher blade hardness generally translates to a longer-lasting edge and better performance. If you are looking for chisels with exceptional hardness, there are several options worth considering.
In the segment of bench chisels, Narex Richter Extra Bevel Edge Chisels are highly regarded for their high blade hardness. With a Rockwell hardness of 61 HRc, these chisels offer outstanding durability, making them suitable for demanding woodworking projects. Another excellent option is the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisels, featuring a premium, chrome carbon-infused steel blade that boasts a Rockwell hardness of 62 HRc. These chisels provide remarkable edge retention and are an excellent choice for professional woodworkers.
Flat or curved blade
A flat blade is an excellent option for general-purpose woodworking and can be used for various tasks such as shaping, reducing the thickness of material, or creating clean, straight lines. The Stanley 16-791 sweetheart 750 series socket chisel is a top contender in this category, with its high carbon chrome steel blade that maintains a sharp edge for extended usage and precise cuts.
On the other hand, a curved blade chisel, also known as a gouge, is designed for carving and shaping intricate details in woodworking projects. The curvature of the blade allows for efficient removal of material and smoother, more controlled cuts. One outstanding example is the Narex Czech Steel Marking Mortise Chisel with an angled blade designed specifically for creating decorative patterns, mortises, and splinter-free cuts. Its chrome-manganese steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
Whether opting for a flat or curved blade chisel, these examples, among other similar products available on the market, provide reliable and efficient options to suit your specific woodworking needs.
Blade grind type
The blade grind refers to the shape of the bevel that is formed on the cutting edge of the chisel. There are various types of blade grinds, each with their own advantages and purposes.
One common and versatile blade grind type is the flat grind, which is characterized by a flat bevel that extends from the underside to the top, forming a sharp cutting edge. The Stanley 16-793 Sweetheart 750 Series Chisel Set features a flat grind, making it suitable for general-purpose use and providing excellent control and accuracy.
For more specialized applications like creating intricate woodwork or carving, a hollow grind is often preferred. This type of blade grind creates a concave bevel on the cutting edge, allowing for greater maneuverability and precision. The Narex 863234 Woodworking Chisels come with a hollow grind, making them ideal for detailed woodworking tasks where crisp and fine finishes are required.
Another type of blade grind is the beveled edge or skew grind, which features a symmetric bevel that tapers to a sharp edge. This grind is commonly found in chisels specifically designed for joinery work, such as the Crown Tools UK JB750 Robert Sorby Patriot Chisels.
Weight
The weight of a chisel can greatly impact the user's control and comfort during woodworking tasks. Lighter chisels, such as the Stanley 16-150 150 Series Short Blade 3-Piece Wood Chisel Set, are easy to handle and maneuver, making them ideal for delicate and detailed work. On the other hand, heavier chisels, like the Narex 853050 3-Piece Compact Palm Size Chisel Set, provide more power and stability for heavier tasks, such as creating mortises or shaping large pieces of wood. The weight of chisels can vary between different brands and models, so ensure to carefully review the product specifications to find the chisels that suit your specific needs.
Handle material
The handle provides grip and comfort during use, so it is crucial to select a material that is durable and offers a secure hold. A popular option is hardwood, known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. One example is the IRWIN Marples Woodworking Chisel Set, featuring handles made from high-quality hardwood for durability and remaining comfortable even during prolonged use. Another option is polymer, which is lightweight yet sturdy. The Stanley 16-298 Wood Chisel Set offers an excellent grip with its polymer handles that are designed to provide optimum comfort and control. Additionally, there are chisels with rubberized grips, such as the DEWALT 3-Piece Woodworking Chisel Set, which offer a secure and comfortable grip for enhanced control and reduced hand fatigue.
Handle grip
The grip on a chisel can greatly affect the comfort, control, and overall usability of the tool. There are various types of handle grips available today, each with its own advantages. One popular option is the Narex Premium chisels, which feature a comfortable and ergonomic handle made from stained and waxed European beech wood. Another excellent choice is the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisels, known for their durable handles crafted from hornbeam wood with a traditional octagonal shape for a secure grip. ProEdge bevel-edged chisels are another group worth considering, with their soft touch, ergonomic handles that provide superior comfort and control during extended use. It's important to choose a chisel with a handle grip that suits your personal preference and working style, as it can significantly impact your overall chiseling experience.
Handle length
A longer handle provides better leverage and control while working, ensuring accuracy and reducing fatigue. The Stanley 16-299 Stanley 120045 Premium Bench Chisels are a great choice with their 4-3/4-inch long handle that offers excellent balance and control. Another option is the Narex Czech Steel Precision Bench Chisels which feature a handle length of 5-3/4 inches, providing a comfortable grip and the ability to exert greater force without sacrificing precision. Alternatively, if you prefer a shorter handle, the Pfeil Swiss Made Butt Wood Chisels,` which have a handle length of just 4 inches, offer compact size for delicate work and increased maneuverability.
Handle ergonomics
A comfortable and ergonomic handle can significantly improve grip, control, and overall user experience. Look for handles that are designed with ergonomics in mind, such as contoured shapes and rubberized grips. For example, the Stanley 16-328 FatMax Cold Chisel with Bi-Material Hand Guard features a bi-material handle with an ergonomic design that provides comfort and reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. Another option is the IRWIN Marples M373 Splitproof Chisels with their bevel-edge blade design and impact-resistant polypropylene handles, delivering both comfort and durability. Some chisels also feature finger grooves or textured surfaces for added grip, like the Narex 863010 Wood Chisels, which have hornbeam handles with finger grooves for superior control.
Handle durability
A chisel with a sturdy handle ensures that it can withstand the repetitive striking and exerted force during use, prolonging its lifespan. One example of a highly durable chisel handle is the Stanley 16-791 Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel. This chisel features a durable and long-lasting wooden handle made from select hardwood, providing excellent resistance to shocks and impacts. Likewise, the Narex 810103 Premium Chisels with Hornbeam Handles offers exceptional handle durability due to its use of dense European Hornbeam material. This hardwood is renowned for its strength and rigidity, ensuring a long-lasting chisel handle that can withstand heavy use.
Chisel set providing range of sizes
Having various chisel sizes at your disposal allows for versatility and flexibility in different woodworking and crafting tasks. Good examples of chisel sets with a range of sizes include the 'Stanley 16-401 Bailey Chisel Set, 5-Piece' which offers bevel-edged chisels in sizes 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, 1-inch, and 1-1/4 inch. Another option is the 'Narex 863010' with a set of 6 chisels with sizes ranging from 4mm to 26mm. These chisels are precision ground with slim, ergonomic handles and are well-suited for both beginner and professional woodworking projects.segmenting the Chisel market would be by their material blade is made out of. Namely, Wood or Steel Chisels. Important products include 'Narex Woodworking Chisel-Set 4-pieces -2, {High Carbon Steel, "True Assistant 9 Pieces Wood Carving Hand Chisel Tool Set" - 9 Pieces, , 'MARSHALLTOWN The Premier Line 8162 Unitek Diamond Coated Blade Steel Chisel 2' are fine options of steel chisels.
Chisel set providing different types of chisels
Some popular options include the DEWALT DWHT16063 4-Piece Chisel Set and the WORKPRO W001319A Chisel Set.
The DEWALT DWHT16063 chisel set offers four different types of chisels, including a 3/4-inch wide chisel, a 1/2-inch wide chisel, a 1/4-inch wide chisel, and a 1/8-inch wide chisel. These chisels are made from chrome vanadium steel, which provides durability and strength. The bevel edge design allows for precise cutting and sharpness retention.
On the other hand, the WORKPRO W001319A chisel set includes six different types of chisels, namely a 1/4-inch wide chisel, a 3/8-inch wide chisel, a 1/2-inch wide chisel, a 5/8-inch wide chisel, a 3/4-inch wide chisel, and a 1-inch wide chisel. These chisels are made from heat-treated carbon steel, ensuring long-lasting performance. The ergonomically designed handle provides comfort and control during use.
There are various chisel sets available on the market, and they can be categorized into different groups based on the number and types of chisels included. Some sets offer a basic selection of chisels, such as those mentioned above, while others may provide a more extensive range of sizes and types. It is essential to choose a set that aligns with your specific woodworking or carpentry needs.
Chisel set providing various bevel angles
Having a chisel set with different bevel angles allows you to tackle a wider range of tasks and achieve different types of cuts.
One example of a chisel set that offers various bevel angles is the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Chisels. This set includes chisels with 25-degree, 30-degree, and 35-degree bevel angles, giving you the versatility to work with different types of wood and achieve different levels of precision. The Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Chisels are made from high-carbon chrome steel and have precision-ground, tempered blades that stay sharp for longer periods of time.
Another option is the Narex Bench Chisels 863010 - Splitproof 6- and 10-Piece Sets, which come with 25-degree bevels on the blades. These chisels have blades made from fine-grained, properly hardened carbon steel and are finely ground and polished. They also feature steel ferrules and splitproof beech wood handles for durability and comfortable grip.
In summary, when looking for chisel sets that provide various bevel angles, options like the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Chisels or the Narex Bench Chisels 863010 - Splitproof 6- and 10-Piece Sets are excellent choices that offer durability, sharpness, and versatility to tackle a range of woodworking tasks.
Chisel set providing different blade lengths
A chisel set with varied blade lengths allows for greater versatility and flexibility in different woodworking applications. For instance, the DEWALT DWHT16063 Short Blade Chisel Set offers three different blade lengths: 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, and 1-inch. These varying blade lengths cater to different project needs, whether it's shaping intricate details or working on larger surfaces. Similarly, the Stanley 16-298 Cold Chisel Kit consists of six chisels with lengths ranging from 1/4 inch to 1-1/2 inches. This range of blade lengths provides options for various applications, from cutting through metal to working with stone or concrete. By offering chisel sets with different blade lengths, these products offer versatility and allow users to tackle a wide array of woodworking tasks.
Country of origin
Certain countries have a long-standing reputation for producing top-notch chisels, often using specific techniques and materials. For example, Narex chisels from the Czech Republic are highly regarded for their high-quality blades made from chrome-manganese steel. They are known for their exceptional edge retention and ability to stay sharp even after intensive use. Another notable country in terms of chisel manufacturing is Japan. Japanese chisels, such as the Nomi chisels, are famous for their exceptional sharpness and durability. Crafted with a laminated steel blade using traditional forging methods, these chisels offer outstanding cutting performance and precision.
Availability of replacement parts
It’s essential to select chisels that are not only well-made but also have readily available replacement parts in case of wear or damage. This ensures that the investment in chisels is a long-term one and will save you from having to replace the entire tool if only a part is damaged.
One great example is the WoodRiver 6-Piece Bench Chisel Set. These chisels are known for their high-quality carbon steel blades and comfortable handles. In addition, WoodRiver offers replacement blades for these chisels, making them a convenient choice for woodworkers. Another option is the Stanley Sweetheart 750 Series Chisel Set, which is crafted from high-carbon chrome steel for durability and features precision-ground blades. Replacement blades are also available for this set, giving users the peace of mind that they can easily replace damaged or worn parts.
In the realm of Japanese chisels, the Narex Mortise Chisels are worth mentioning. These chisels are made from high-quality, hardened steel and come with sturdy hornbeam handles. The blades can be honed and polished to a razor-sharp edge, and Narex also offers replacement blades, ensuring a long-lasting investment for professionals and woodworking enthusiasts.
Selecting chisels that come with easily accessible replacement parts, such as the WoodRiver, Stanley Sweetheart, and Narex Mortise chisels, will guarantee that you have a reliable and lasting set of tools for your woodworking projects.
Type of cutting (wood, metal, stone, etc.)
Different materials require different chisels to ensure the best results. For woodworking, Stanley Bailey Sweetheart 750 Series Chisels are highly recommended. These chisels have high carbon steel blades that are designed specifically for woodworking, offering precision and long-lasting edge retention. If you work with metals, IRWIN Marples M444/S4N Soft Touch Bevel Edge Chisels are a great choice. With their hardened steel blades, they provide excellent durability and can withstand the rigors of metalworking. For stone cutting applications, the Kraft Tool Company CC420 6 Inches Carbide Hand Chisel with Grip Handle is an excellent option. This chisel features a carbide blade for exceptional hardness and is designed for shaping and roughing stones. Remember, selecting the right chisel for your specific cutting needs is essential to achieve the best results.
Intended use (carpentry, woodworking, sculpting, etc.)
Different chisels are designed for specific tasks in carpentry, woodworking, sculpting, and other trades. For example, for carpentry purposes, a sturdy and versatile chisel like the Stanley 16-791 Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel is highly recommended. This particular chisel features a long handle for improved control and a comfortable grip, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as timber framing or furniture making.
For woodworking projects that require precision and fine detailing, a set of Narex Richter Bevel Edge Chisels would be a great choice. These chisels are known for their high-quality blade steel, which allows for excellent edge retention and sharpness. The set contains multiple sizes, catering to different woodworking needs.
When it comes to sculpting, a set of Flexcut Sculptor's Knives could be the perfect fit. These knives are specifically designed for wood carving purposes and come in a range of varieties with different blade profiles, allowing for greater diversity while sculpting intricate designs.
By considering the intended use of the chisel and selecting the appropriate tool based on that, you can ensure that your chisels will perform optimally and provide satisfactory results in your respective trade.
Fine woodworking or heavy-duty projects
When it comes to fine woodworking or heavy-duty projects, it is important to choose chisels that are specifically designed to handle these tasks with durability and precision. For fine woodworking, Narex 863010 Small Mortise Chisel is an excellent choice. This chisel features a fine-grained European beech handle and a high carbon steel blade with a hardness of 59 HRC, making it ideal for delicate woodworking tasks. Its carefully sharpened edge ensures precision and clean cuts.
For heavy-duty projects, Stanley 16-975 FatMax Short Blade Chisel Set is a reliable option. This set includes chisels with hardened and tempered chrome carbon steel blades, allowing them to withstand tough use. The specifically designed steel strike cap provides additional durability and can be used with a hammer for more forceful tasks. This set is available in a range of sizes, making it suitable for various heavy-duty projects.
Chisel maintenance requirements
Look for chisels that are made from high-quality materials such as hardened steel or alloyed steel, as these are more durable and resistant to wear. Additionally, some chisels feature a protective coating, such as chrome plating or lacquer finish, to prevent rust and corrosion.
To maintain your chisels, it is recommended to invest in a honing guide and sharpening stones. The honing guide will help you achieve a consistent angle while sharpening, while sharpening stones with different grits, such as coarse, medium, and fine, are ideal for refining the edge. Examples of honing guides include the 'Veritas Mk.II Honing Guide' and the 'Oneway Wolverine Grinding Jig.' For sharpening stones, consider options like the 'DMT DuoSharp Plus Bench Stone' or the 'Norton Waterstone Starter Kit.' Remember to periodically clean your chisels with a degreasing agent to remove any buildup of oil or rust and keep them in proper storage to prevent damage.
Dust extraction compatibility
This feature helps keep your working area clean and free from dangerous dust particles. Some chisels come with built-in or optional dust extraction systems that efficiently remove dust and debris while you work, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and making your workspace more comfortable. For example, the Festool Carving Kit Set offers dust extraction compatibility with its integrated extraction channel that connects to a dust extractor. Similarly, the Bosch SDS-plus Chisel also features compatibility with their Bulldog Combination Dust Extractor, which sucks up dust directly from the chisel, creating a cleaner environment.
Noise level
Noisy tools can not only be irritating but can also lead to long-term hearing damage. In this regard, it is worth opting for chisels with reduced noise levels, such as the Makita HR4013C and Bosch RH328VC-36K.
The Makita HR4013C is a rotary hammer chisel that operates at a remarkably low noise level of 86 decibels (dB). This chisel features a powerful 11 Amp motor and an antivibration technology to minimize user fatigue. Additionally, it boasts a solid impact energy of 5.6 ft.lbs, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
Another option to consider is the Bosch RH328VC-36K hammer chisel, which has an equally low noise level of 86 dB. This tool stands out for its innovative Active Vibration Control technology, providing maximum comfort during prolonged use. Additionally, it showcases a substantial impact energy of 2.6 ft.lbs, promising efficient and precise chiseling.
Safety features
Look for chisels that have built-in safety measures such as ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable grip and prevent slippage. One example is the Stanley FatMax Thru Tang Chisel Set which features an ergonomic handle with a bi-material grip for maximum control and reduced vibration. Another important safety feature to consider is the inclusion of a protective cap or sheath to prevent accidental injuries and to keep the blade in good condition when not in use. The IRWIN Marples Chisel Set is a great option as it comes with a fitted wooden case that securely holds the chisels and protects the blades. These sets are ideal for both professional and DIY enthusiasts looking for safety-focused chisels.
Rust resistance
Rust can weaken the chisel's performance, affect its longevity, and in turn, compromise the quality of your work. One excellent choice that offers exceptional rust resistance is the Stanley 16-300 3 Piece Wood Chisel Set. These chisels are forged from high carbon chrome steel which provides durability and prevents corrosion. Another option to consider is the IRWIN Marples Woodworking Chisel Set. Crafted using high-carbon steel blades, these chisels are hardened to resist rust, ensuring they remain sharp and efficient over time. Both sets provide excellent rust-resistance, allowing you to focus on your craftsmanship without worrying about rust affecting your tools.
Chisel storage options
Chisels should be stored in a manner that keeps them easily accessible while also protecting their cutting edge from damage. Many chisel sets come with storage options such as pouches or cases. For instance, the Stanley 16-791 Sweetheart 750 Series Socket Chisel Set, comes with a hardwood case that keeps the chisels organized and protected. Alternatively, a Marples M444/S4 Blue Chip Chisel Set offers a canvas roll up bag for storage, allowing for easy transportation and storage in smaller spaces.
Another option for chisel storage is a chisel rack or holder. These are often made of wood or metal and have slots or compartments to securely hold the chisels. The Woodpeckers 800-853-6997 Woodworkers Edge Rule Chisel Storage Rack is a high-quality option that can hold up to 16 chisels, while the Katzco Magnetic Chisel Holder attaches vertically to a metal surface, keeping the chisels within reach and securely in place. Some other chisel storage options available on the market include wall-mounted racks, combination toolboxes with built-in chisel organizers, and chisel rolls that offer individual sleeves to store and protect each chisel.
Price
Chisels can fall into different price ranges based on their quality and materials used. In the range of affordable options, the Stanley Sweetheart Chisels are a great choice. These chisels feature a carbon-steel blade hardened to hold a keen edge and a wooden handle for comfortable grip. On the higher end of the price spectrum, the Lie-Nielsen Chisels are renowned for their superior construction and performance. These chisels are painstakingly handcrafted with A2 tool steel, heat-treated to a hardness of Rockwell 60-62, ensuring exceptional edge retention. Regardless of the price range, it's crucial to find chisels that strike the right balance between quality and value.
Variety of brands
Various brands offer chisels with innovative features, superior design, and excellent durability. For example, the Narex Woodworking Chisels are renowned for their high-quality construction, innovative polypropylene handles, and blades of chrome-manganese steel. These chisels provide excellent balance and control, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
Another notable brand is Stanley, known for its wide range of chisels suitable for different applications. The Stanley 16-299 12 Piece Short Blade Chisel Set is a versatile option that covers a range of woodworking tasks. Featuring beveled edges and contoured, impact-resistant handles, these chisels offer both functionality and comfortable grip during use.
Additionally, IRWIN Marples Woodworking Chisels deserve attention due to their high-carbon steel blades, hardened to prolong edge retention. Their ProTouch handles ensure a ergonomic grip and reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use. For professionals seeking premium quality, Lie-Nielsen Cabinetmaker's Chisels offer excellence across the board. These chisels incorporate A2 tool steel blades that are heat-treated and double-tempered for exceptional hardness and edge retention.
While the variety of brands ensures a wide range of options, it is essential to carefully consider the pros and cons of each specific brand to make an informed decision based on the desired features, like blade material, handle design, and durability.