Chisel basics
A chisel is a hand tool with a sharpened edge on one end of a metal blade. It is used to cut, pare or chop material. Chisels are typically grouped by what they are made to cut: wood, metal or masonry. Within wood chisels, the blade shape and thickness decide what the tool does best.
Wood chisels
Bevel edge chisels
Bevel edge chisels, also called bench chisels, have angled sides along the blade. These angles let the edge reach into corners and joints such as dovetails. They are widely considered the most versatile choice, which is why they are often recommended as a starting point.
Butt chisels
A butt chisel has a short blade. It is useful for jobs such as cutting hinge recesses, where space is tight and short length gives control.
Firmer chisels
Firmer chisels have a thicker, rectangular cross-section. They are stiffer and intended for heavier chopping and general work. The square edges make them less suited to tight corners.
Paring chisels
Paring chisels have long, thin blades, and are the answer to which chisels are longer and thinner than standard wood chisels. They are used with hand pressure rather than a mallet, for shaving and fine fitting of joints. Because they are thin, they can bend if levered or struck.
Mortise chisels
Mortise chisels are thick and sturdy so that they can be struck hard and used to lever out waste when cutting mortises for joinery. Their thick blades resist bending, and the handles are often built to stand repeated mallet blows.
Dovetail chisels
Dovetail chisels have narrow, slim blades with steep side bevels that reach into the tight corners of dovetail joints.
Framing and slick chisels
Large chisels used in timber framing are sized for big joints. They are typically pushed or struck depending on the design, and are usually not a first purchase.
Chisels for metal and masonry
- Cold chisels are made of hardened steel and are used with a hammer for cutting metal, shearing off rivets, or splitting stubborn bolts.
- Masonry chisels are designed for brick, block, stone and concrete. They have thicker, tougher blades. See our guide to masonry chisel types for the different forms.
Do not use a wood chisel on metal or masonry, because the edge will chip or dull quickly.
Handles and steel
Many handles are wood, plastic or composite. Chisels intended to be struck should have handles built for it, sometimes with a metal cap or hoop. Paring chisels often have lighter handles.
What type of steel are chisels made from? It varies. Many are made from high-carbon or alloy steels, and some manufacturers use tool steel for harder edges. Harder steels hold an edge for longer but can be more brittle. Check the manufacturer’s description if it matters to you.
Which chisels to buy first
For general woodworking, a small set of bevel edge chisels in a few widths is a common starting point. Add a paring chisel or a mortise chisel when your work needs it. The best carpentry chisel for you will depend on the work, how you store it, and your budget. Quality varies, so look for flat backs, a well-fitted handle, and steel that takes a good edge.
Using a chisel safely
- Clamp the workpiece so that both hands can stay behind the cutting edge.
- Always cut away from your body and your other hand.
- Use a mallet for striking chisels. A hammer can damage wooden handles. Our guide to different types of hammers covers mallets and soft-faced options.
- Cut with the grain where possible and take light cuts.
- Wear eye protection, and keep the edge sharp, since dull chisels need more force and slip more easily.
Care and sharpening
Keep chisels dry and store them with the edges protected. Sharpen with a stone or guide, and hone regularly. Flattening the back is a key early step with new chisels.
Frequently asked questions
Which chisels are longer and thinner than standard wood chisels?
Paring chisels.
How do I use chisels for woodworking?
Secure the work, keep both hands behind the edge, and take light cuts. Use hand pressure for paring and a mallet for chopping.
What type of steel are chisels made from?
Commonly high-carbon or alloy steels, though it varies.
What are the best carpentry chisels?
It depends on the work. Bevel edge chisels are a versatile starting point.