DIY Network

Avoiding Kickback/Choosing Chisels: Choosing a Chisel Avoiding Kickback/Choosing Chisels: Choosing a Chisel From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-262

Host David Thiel offers advice on purchasing a chisel.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

There are two kinds of chisels (figure A). One is a beveled-edge chisel; the other is a mortising chisel.

A mortising chisel has straight, vertical edges. It drives in and stays on the same line. The beveled-edge chisel is an all-purpose chisel used for many applications in the shop. It can be turned in a cut.

Making a Mortise Cut:

1. Use a chisel that is the same size as the mortise (figure B). For a 3/4 inch mortise, use a 3/4 inch chisel.

2. When starting the cut, keep the back surface of the chisel to the inside of the mortise. If you have the beveled surface pointing into the mortise, the beveled edge will push against the wood and can alter the line of the cut.

3. Mark out the outline of the mortise all the way around with the beveled edge pointing away from the cut.

4. Wedge the material out of the mortise with the beveled edge of the chisel and a hammer (figure C). You can use a metal hammer with a metal chisel, but don't use a metal hammer with a wooden-handled chisel. Use a rubber mallet instead.

5. Use a smaller chisel to pare out the extra material.

Tip: Make sure your chisel is sharp before using. The bevel and the flat back surface need to be sharpened.