Tools Central

All About Straight-Blade Wood Chisels

Chisels are cutting and shaping tools that are essential to many carpentry jobs. All the chisels shown here have straight blades. Curved-blade chisels, known as gouges, are used to cut curves in wood and rounded corners.

Excerpted from Do It Yourself Home Improvement

Firmer Chisel

The blade of the firmer chisel is rectangular in cross-section, making it strong and suitable for heavy-duty work. Chisel handles are struck repeatedly and so they need to be exceptionally hardwearing. Traditional handles are wooden, but modern handles, such as this one, are made from shatterproof and impact-resistant cellulose acetate. Further protection is sometimes provided by a metal cap on the end of the handle.