How To Buy A Quality Chisel Set: A Buying Guide
There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the right chisel sets for your projects.
Handle
Wood chisels have a handle which allows you to control the movements and pressure of the chisel as you carve out the wood. Wood crafting and wood sculpting are very precise and labor intensive. The handle of the chisel must be ergonomic. To check whether the handle of the chisel is ergonomic or not, observe its length and how it feels in your hand.
Ideally, a chisel handle should be of similar proportion to the bolster on the chisel.
Scope
You must know what you will use the chisel set for before you buy it. Different chisels have different functions. You should choose the right chisel to fit your purpose.
Some chisels allow you to make accents on wood and others square corners. Choosing the right chisel not only helps you work more efficiently but achieve precise results.
Size
Chisels come in different sizes. Choosing the wrong size of the chisel can make it difficult for you to work on any project, which is why size is one factor that must not be ignored. Large chisels, for example, are usually designed for bigger projects that require more leverage. Smaller chisels, on the other hand, are better suited for smaller projects because they offer more flexibility.
So as you can imagine, the right size of chisel for you depends on the type of project you would be using it for.
Flat-edged or bevelled
Chisels usually feature one of two types of edges, beveled and flat-edged. Bevel edges are angled from the sides and can fit into tight spaces easily hence why these are usually used for more detailed projects.
Due to their versatile shape, these chisels are usually required for most woodwork projects.
Flat edge chisels, on the other head, feature a flat head. These are commonly used for carving, cutting, and chopping wood. Proving a more detailed finish to your projects, you should keep in mind that these are not as versatile as bevel chisels.
Quality of steel
Another important aspect to consider is the quality of the steel used in the chisel. This will determine the durability of the blades and their sharpness. Low quality steel gets damaged easily and needs to be sharpened very frequently, sometimes lasting less than six months
High-grade steel chisels, on the other hand, are designed to last for years. Moreover, these require less frequent sharpening.
Price
The price of the chisel set depends on the quality of steel and wood it is made from. Chisels are meant for heavy-duty use and can take a lot more hits. It is crucial that the set you select is strong and durable.
Generally speaking, the better the quality of the tools the more they are going to cost. Therefore, if you are someone who uses chisels frequently then it may be more beneficial (to both your time and wallet) to pay a little more and opt for a high-quality set once and for all.
Qualitative
The quality of the chisels determines the type of result you would get on the projects you work on with them. Hence, you must choose a chisel set that does not compromise on quality. You can also check reviews and ratings to see what other customers have to say about the products.
A chisel set with a manufacturer warranty is a good idea.
What Are The Different Types Of Chisels?
Mortising chisel
These chisels can be used to mortise and carve tenon joints by hand. These are hit on the back with a mallet, allowing the head of the chisel to chop the on the front.
Corner chisel
As the name suggests, a corner chisel is used to carve out the corners of the wood. However, these can also be used for dadoes, mortises, and grooves. Corner chisels make it easy to accomplish the task without having to set up a drill presse.
Skew chisel
The skew chisel has an angled head which allows you to work in areas that have less space. These are usually used for more delicate detailing since the flat angles head of the chisel allows you to give a precise finish to a project.
Japanese chisel
This type of chisel has a flat, sharp cutting edge on the head. Generally made from hard steel and requiring less frequent sharpening, these types of chisels are commonly used to center and support the handle ensuring that it does not split or deform due to consistent hammer blows.
Bench chisel
A bench chisel can be used for many purposes. These chisels are usually long in size and are used for paring and chopping wood. Because of their large size, bench-chisels can’t be used for intricate details.
Instead, these tend to excel in wood chopping and paring.
Butt chisel
Butt chisels are smaller in size in comparison to bench chisels. Used for smaller and more detailed projects, the stunted design of the blade allows you to easily reach tighter areas promoting control and precision.
