What masonry chisels do
Masonry chisels are heavy-duty, hardened chisels designed to cut, split or shape brick, concrete block, stone and mortar. They are struck with a heavy hammer. Their blades are much thicker than woodworking chisels, because the material is hard and the striking force is high. They are different from the family of wood chisels described in our guide to chisel types.
There is no single list of exactly four types, but a typical range includes bolsters, cold chisels, point and tooth chisels, and plugging chisels.
Brick bolster
A brick bolster has a wide, flat blade, often around 3 to 4 inches wide, though sizes vary. It is used to cut bricks and blocks cleanly, usually by scoring a line and then striking the bolster along it. The wide edge helps to keep the break straight. In many regions the bolster is simply called a brick chisel.
Cold chisel
A cold chisel is a solid bar with a flat cutting edge. Although it is strongly associated with metal, a cold chisel is also used in masonry tasks, for example cutting concrete, removing mortar joints, and chipping away material. Narrow blades concentrate force, while wide blades spread it.
Point, pitching and tooth chisels
These are stone-working chisels.
- Point chisels have a pointed tip for roughing out stone and removing material quickly.
- Pitching tools have a wide, blunt edge for splitting or removing large pieces and creating a straight edge.
- Tooth chisels have a toothed edge, used after the point to leave a more even surface.
Wallers and stonemasons often use shorter chisels with a stone-handling style, and each tradesperson tends to have preferences.
Plugging chisels and mortar removal
What chisel is best for removing mortar? A plugging chisel, sometimes called a plugging or raking chisel, has a narrow, flat blade with a tapered end used to rake out old mortar joints before repointing. Narrow cold chisels and specialized joint chisels are also used. Take care not to damage the edges of the bricks, and consider the width of the joint when choosing the chisel.
Concrete and SDS chisels
For concrete, a hand chisel can work for small jobs. For larger work, many people use a hammer drill or demolition hammer with a chisel bit, such as an SDS style. These bits are designed for particular machines, so check compatibility before buying.
Brick chisel versus masonry chisel
People often ask about the key differences between a brick chisel and a masonry chisel. A brick chisel, or bolster, is a specific type with a wide blade for cutting brick. “Masonry chisel” is a broader term covering all chisels for masonry materials. In some shops, the terms are used interchangeably, so look at the blade width and shape.
Choosing a masonry chisel
- Match the job. A bolster is for cutting bricks, a plugging chisel for mortar, and a point for roughing stone.
- Consider the size. Wider blades for straight breaks, and narrower ones for detail.
- Check the quality. Look for hardened tips and a well-formed striking end.
- Add a hand guard if it comes with the chisel, since it helps protect your hand.
- Pair with a suitable hammer. A club hammer is commonly used. See our guide to different types of hammers for options.
Safety
- Wear eye protection, since chips of masonry and steel can fly.
- Gloves can help protect against blows and sharp debris.
- Wear a dust mask or respirator when cutting masonry, as dust can be harmful to breathe. Follow local guidance for working with silica-containing materials.
- Dress off mushroomed heads on the chisel or replace it.
- Support the work so it does not shift when struck.
Frequently asked questions
What are the four main types of chisels?
There is no universal list. A common grouping is wood, metal (cold), masonry and stone chisels.
What is the best chisel for masonry?
It depends on the task: bolster for brick, plugging chisel for mortar, and point or tooth chisels for stone.
What are the key differences between a brick chisel and a masonry chisel?
A brick chisel has a wide blade for cutting brick, while “masonry chisel” covers a wider group.
What type of chisel is best for removing mortar?
A plugging chisel or narrow cold chisel is usually used.
If you also work with metal and punches, see our guide to types of punches.