We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Industry

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is a Japanese Chisel?

By Jennifer O.
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,649
Share

A Japanese chisel is a woodworking tool used to chip or scrape away small pieces of wood from a larger piece. This handheld tool has a tapered or sharpened metal tip that cuts the wood and an opposite end that is struck repeatedly by some type of hammer. One hand is used to hold the tool against the wood, and the other is used to strike the tool with the hammer, causing a cut or scrape with each blow. A set will contain chisels in various shapes and sizes, with different bevel angles, or tapering. Usually made in Japan, Japanese chisels tend to weigh less than other types of chisels and often have decorative etchings or other markings.

Japanese chisels typically have wooden handles, and the stricken end of the wood is often fitted with a metal ring, or ferrule. The hoop at the end allows it to withstand hard blows from a steel hammer or wooden mallet without splitting apart. The hoop might come already set on the handle, or the user might have to set the hoop. In the latter case, it should be carefully assembled in order to avoid discomfort or injury, and to ensure that the chisel works correctly.

These chisels are also known for their decorative aspects, such as intricate etchings on the metal blade or other markings and decorations on the wooden handles. The handles can be made of rare or expensive woods. Like any other chisel, a Japanese chisel can be made from several types of steel or iron. It might be hand-forged or hand-carved, or both. The chemical composition of the metal and the skill of the blacksmith who created the tool greatly affect its quality.

A Japanese chisel differs from other chisels in ways that can make a notable difference to an experienced woodworker. Using a Japanese chisel will have a different feel in the hand than other types of chisels. A Japanese chisel or set can sometimes be purchased without having already been sharpened or beveled. This allows the craftsperson to create a bevel angle that suits a project’s unique needs. A Japanese chisel can be found in any price range, and the quality can vary greatly.

This type of chisel is often considered to be a high-quality chisel. There has been much debate about whether it is superior to a Western chisel. Being well informed about the process and materials used in the tool's creation are important when choosing a chisel.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Related Articles

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-a-japanese-chisel.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.