From rookie woodworkers to seasoned pros, everyone wants the best chisels. Wherever you fall, there are chisels on this list right for you.
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Buying a Woodworking Chisel
Simply stated, chisels are blades with handles that woodworkers use to sculpt, shape and cut wood with precision. Chisels must be kept sharp to work properly, and every woodworker knows the value of a good set of chisels.
Types of Woodworking Chisels
Chisels fall into three types:
- Bench: These chisels typically feature a beveled edge and are versatile enough for a range of tasks (except mortises), making them perfect for beginners. They’re used so frequently you’ll want them on your bench at all times, hence the name.
- Mortise: These heavy-duty chisels cut and chop mortise-and-tenon joints. They’re durable enough to aggressively pound with a mallet, and thick enough to generate the leverage needed for removing wood.
- Paring: Longer and thinner, they’re well-suited for delicate and precise work, like removing small amounts of material to ensure a tight-fitting joint. They’re not sturdy enough to be struck with a mallet, and require a light touch to avoid damage.
Woodworking Chisel Buying Considerations
When shopping for chisels, take these factors into consideration:
- Size: Chisel size refers to the width of the blade. Depending on potential use and your desired productivity level, size is important. If you’re building your chisel collection from scratch, go with a bench chisel set that includes 1/4-, 1/2-, 3/4-, and 1-inch sizes.
- Storage: Although chisels handle relatively rugged tasks, their blades are delicate and their edges can be easily damaged if they’re not stored correctly. If you lack a safe storage space for chisels, consider buying a set that comes with a pouch, roll or box.
- Handle type: There are two types, socket and tang. Socket chisels feature a cone-shaped handle that fits into the hollow receiver of the metal blade. Tang chisels are the inverse, with a metal cone that fits into a hollowed handle. Socket chisels are typically more durable and last longer than tangs, so they’re a better choice for frequent, demanding use. Tang handles should be fine for most users.
- Handle material: Wood is the most common. It provides a sturdy, natural grip along with an attractive, rustic look. Plastic handles lack this tactile benefit, although they’re usually significantly cheaper and can take more of a beating than wooden options.
- Sharpening required: Most chisels require honing and sharpening, and you can consult buyer reviews for insight. Some high-end chisels will be ready to use practically right out of the box. Regardless of the chisel you choose, you’ll need to know how to sharpen a chisel correctly.
Best Overall Bench Woodworking Chisel Set
With a range of six sizes and an impressively low price, the Narex Boxed Bench Chisel Set is the best overall chisel set you can buy. Their beechwood handles provide a sturdy grip while you work. Thanks to the steel ferrules, the tang handles are durable enough to take a beating.
The included storage box keeps these valuable woodworking tools protected while not in use, and a foam interior prevents them from rolling around.
Best Low-Budget Woodworking Chisel Set
If you don’t have a big budget, or just want a few backup chisels to keep in your toolbox, check out the Irwin Marples Blue Chip Bench Chisel Set.
This set includes five bench chisels with rubber covers to protect the blades. It’s worth noting that low-cost chisels can still be effective as long as they’re sharpened and maintained correctly.
Best Full Bench Set of Woodworking Chisels for Beginners
If you’re just starting your chisel collection, the high-quality, versatile Stanley Sweetheart Chisel Set is a great choice. These eight chisels range from 1/8- to 1-1/4-inches, and their beveled edges can tackle a variety of chiseling tasks. A soft-sided leather tool roll protects this set. It’s easier to store and transport than a wood or plastic storage box.
Best Single Woodworking Chisel
If you’re more interested in quality over quantity, take a look at the Lie-Nielsen 1/2-in. Bevel Chisel. It’s versatile enough for a wide range of wood shaping and sculpting tasks, and the Lie-Nielson brand is synonymous with high quality.
The socket handle ensures this chisel can take a pounding. It’s made of especially tough and sturdy hornbeam wood, good for whacking with a mallet. If any issues arise, Lie-Neilson guarantees its material and workmanship for life.
Best Mortise Woodworking Chisel
Unless you’re making a lot of mortise-and-tenon joints, you probably don’t need an entire set of mortise chisels. With the Narex 6mm Chisel, you get the heavy-duty chopping ability and durability you need. This robust tool comes in eight sizes, so regardless of your specific joinery dimensions you’ll find one that fits your needs.
Best Paring Woodworking Chisels
A low bevel angle (20 degrees) and long blade length (9-5/8-in.) make these Narex Paring Chisels good for precise paring jobs with minimal user effort.
The length makes these woodworking hand tools easy to use in tight or awkward areas. The sturdy, waxed hornbeam handle provides the grip needed for precise cuts and edge-grain work. They’re available in five sizes, from 1/4- to 1-1/4-inches.
Best Plastic Handle Woodworking Chisels
This set of WoodRiver Chisels features durable polypropylene handles. At the ridiculously low price of $22, it’s great for beginners or seasoned professionals who want an extra set.
The beveled edges make these chisels fit easily into joints and tight spaces, and they come in a useful range of sizes (1/4-in. to 1-inch). Note: They may take some time to hone and sharpen.
Best Splurge Set
If price is no object and you’re looking to revamp your collection, this set of Veritas PM-V11 Bench Chisels is one to consider. Every aspect of these chisels is machined and crafted with maximum precision and balance in mind.
Unlike most chisels that require substantial sharpening, these only need a quick honing before they’re ready to go. Impeccably designed, they feature a flat spot on the handle that keeps them from rolling around.
