The IRWIN Marples Woodworking Chisel Set is the perfect choice for fine woodworking applications. The chisels’ high-carbon steel blades are hardened for extra sharpness. Their contoured handles are designed to be comfortable and maintain their sharp edge. The set includes a 1/4-in, 3/4-in, and 1-in chisel.
‘Bevelled Edge’ chisels started around 1870
Bevelled Edge chisels are made of different metals. Some are handforged from red hot steel or drop hammer. Others are automatic and do not require manual handling. These chisels are marked with the size of the handle and the size of the ferrule.
Marples began making chisels/gouges in the early 1860’s. They started out as firmer chisels with a rectangular shape, but soon after were made with a bevelled edge. This design improved the ease with which they cut dovetails. They also became popular for bench work. This new shape was popular and quickly became an iconic tool.
‘Compact’ chisel #382
Originally made in Sheffield, England, Marples’ ‘Compact’ chisels were marketed in the early to mid 1900s as “Compact” chisels. The chisel was marked with the words “Made in Sheffield” and a ‘Man in Safety Goggles’ emblem. These chisels lasted until May 1991.
Chisels from the Marples line were designed for professionals and amateurs. Their precision engineering and solid-forged steel blades offer superior edge retention and performance. Marples offers an extensive line of chisels for all kinds of tasks and materials.
‘Continental’ pattern wood handle chisels
Listed in the record Ridgway Marples Woodcrafting Tools Catalog, the ‘Continental’ pattern wood handle marplesels are firmer in design, and feature a tapered neck. They are marked with the MARPLES name and trademark on the handle. These tools were manufactured from 1909 to 1986, with the exception of the ‘F’ firmer model, which was produced in the late 1960s.
The MS500B chisel in the MARPLES catalog dated c.2002, shows a slightly different marking on the handle. It is stamped ‘MADE IN SHEFFIELD’ and was issued with Steel Caps. The handle is rounded and has four coats of varnish.
‘Splitproof Butt’ chisel
The ‘Splitproof Butt’ is the name given to the Marples ‘Splitproof’ chisel with a round handle. This type of chisel had a round handle with a tapered neck. It was manufactured in Sheffield and was produced until about 2008 in China.
This chisel is very useful for woodworking. It is made of premium grade steel for improved sharpness and edge retention. The blade, bolster and tang are all forged from one piece of steel. The handle is split-proof with a two-tone finish.
‘Incannel’ gouges
The ‘Incannel’ gouge is a special gouge made from old firm gouges. It is made by grinding the outside bevel out, while taking care not to overheat the steel. This style of gouge has a shorter blade, and requires sharpening to keep its square ends.
There are two types of Marples ‘Incannel’ gouge: the firmer and the paring. The firmer gouge has a 22mm (75/8) or 25mm (1″) blade and is marked with W Gilpin, Cast Steel. The outcannel gouge has an octagonal hardwood handle and is between the firmer and paring gouges in length. These gouges may have an old ministry arrow mark on them.
‘Blue Chip’ chisels
The IRWIN Marples ‘Blue Chip’ CHISELS are constructed of high impact blue plastic with contoured, rounded handles for maximum control and comfort. The chisel is designed to take a few hammer blows without breaking or shattering.
This model of chisel is available in different sizes. This model has a large metal striking cap which prevents mushrooming and prolongs the life of the handle. It also features a ProTouch handle, which provides a comfortable grip and reduces hand fatigue and vibration. Moreover, the blade is forged in one piece, which provides greater strength and durability. A specially hardened blade ensures sharper cutting edge. In addition, each chisel is sharpened individually.
