Photo by Rodney Diaz
There are new and old chisels, wide and narrow ones, plastic and wood handles, and expensive and inexpensive ones. My Arno timber-framing Chisel is the one that I keep reaching out for most of these chisels.
The Arno chisel was purchased on a whim due to its low price in comparison to other timber-framing and chisel-framing models. It has been a true workhorse. Made in France, available in sizes 20-mm, 25mm, 30-mm and 40-mm (roughly 3/4 inch). 1-1/2 to 1 1/2 in. The lengths range from just shy 11 inches to nearly 1 1/2 in. Each chisel is made from one piece of steel. The chisel’s cutting edge is Rockwell 58-60 hardened, which puts it in the right spot for holding an edge while not being brittle. Even the most heavy hammer blows, the butt end will not be affected by the impact. Each chisel’s handle is coated in PVC for a soft, comfortable grip. This allows you to tap wood patches into your newly chiseled home without causing any damage.
The chisel is relatively inexpensive at $45, but the quality is excellent without being too precious to put in a tool bag. Although the chisel comes sharp out of the box, it is easy to use. However, you can polish the edge to a mirror-polished finish with the help of the sharpening stones.
Justin Fink is a Plainville remodeling contractor.
Fine Homebuilding #309