Choosing the right woodworking chisels is a key component to making your woodworking projects successful. There are many factors to consider, such as the type of wood you want to work with, and the size and shape of the chisels that will work best for your needs. It is also important to keep in mind the direction in which the grain of the wood will be cut. This is important, since a chisel with a full tang can be difficult to turn if the grain is oriented in the wrong direction. Similarly, a chisel with stubby edges may not cut as smoothly as one with a wider blade.
Keeping grain direction in mind
Keeping grain direction in mind when using woodworking chisels is one of the best ways to improve your woodworking efficiency. Not only is it useful for planing, but it also helps you lay out your project parts for maximum joint strength and appearance.
To figure out the grain direction of your board, look deeper than the surface. A board with a uniform grain is easier to work with. On the other hand, a board with a steep grain is more likely to tear out. A board with a straight grain is also easy to work with.
Knowing the direction of the grain is the first step in a successful project. The second is knowing how to use your tools. Use your elbows for more control when carving detailed designs. Moving your tool up or down the grain will keep your fibers intact.
There are many ways to figure out the grain direction of a board, but a good rule of thumb is to follow the grain with your finger. You can also read the manufacturer’s specs on paper.
A good rule of thumb is to never cut against the grain. The grain can lift fibers off the surface of the board before the blade reaches them. This can lead to tearout and chattery cuts.
Full tang vs socket handle
Whether you’re making your own chisels or simply purchasing them, you should consider whether you’d like a socket or a full tang. These two types are distinguished by their tapered steel shanks and conical necks.
Generally, a socket chisel will last longer than a tang chisel. This is because the socket is designed to provide a friction fit between the blade and the handle. This helps to prevent splits and cracks. It’s also easier to swap out a socket chisel for a mallet.
On the other hand, a tang chisel will break if you apply too much force when using it. It also tends to be less resistant to regular use. Nonetheless, tang chisels can still provide a long life.
The tang, or “point,” on a tang chisel is the metal part of the blade that goes into the handle. This point should be placed about 3/4 of the way into the hole. It’s also the part of the chisel that is most likely to get broken by a hammer.
Socket chisels also have a conical shape, but they have a tapered steel shank that is attached to the handle. This is similar to the tapered steel shank found on files.
Paring chisels
Traditionally used by cabinet makers, paring chisels are a useful tool for woodworking. They are used for shaving off thin layers of wood when fitting joints. They are typically very thin, making them almost flexible. They are designed for use with one hand on the handle, and allow woodworkers to control the angle of the blade.
Unlike bench-style chisels, paring chisels have longer blades and a low cutting angle. This makes them easier to shave wood, and less force is needed to advance the chisel into the wood. A low cutting angle also gives woodworkers more control, as they will not dig into the wood too deeply.
Paring chisels are often used to finish edges on dovetails and mortise joints. They also are used as a pry bar, enabling woodworkers to get to tight spots without risking injury. They are available in complete sets and in individual units.
Paring chisels are forged from highly alloyed Cr-Mn steel. They are heat treated to 59 HRc. The handle is crafted from hornbeam wood, and is fitted with a brass ferrule. They are usually skew cut, which means the top face of the chisel has a bevel. This bevel allows the woodworker to enter corners that are difficult to reach by hand.
