Tools of the Trade

This is just something for the Tool Guys out there.

Most of these were made in the 19th century. (1800's) The chisels and gouges are made of Cast Steel and can hold a super sharp edge for a long time. (click on photo to enlarge)

I use these every day and they never cease to amaze me.

They were passed down to me from my Great Grandfather only after the toolbox was raided by an uncle or two. I have repaired two handles and there are several more to go. Unfortunately, no one believed in the the old saying - "The proper tool for a proper job." Certainly not my ancestors. In the photo at right there are three Mortising Chisels that are meant to be struck, preferably with a Mallet. The two on the right and obviously the second from the left.

No handle yet.

They have a massive tapering socket to allow a matching tapered handle with a generous shoulder to absorb the shock of the hammer blows. They are expected to get damaged and replaced. Also, if you turn the chisel sideways you will notice that it is at least twice the thickness closer to the handle. This is to prevent bending the blade at or near the handle when levering chips out of the mortise. This also is the reason the back of the chisel is radiused.

Paring Chisels on the other hand (the two in the center) are meant to be PUSHED. They will have a very shallow bevel and are meant for finishing cuts. I keep these razor sharp. they don't need the extra mass and steeper bevel. The tang of the handle on these extends at least halfway into the handle and the ferrule at the bottom of the handle prevents the handle from splitting when you drive he tang into the hole. These chisels will last a lifetime, and in point of fact have already lasted almost three lifetimes.