Bench Chisel vs. Butt Chisel: What’s the Difference?
Chisels are versatile tools that are essential for woodworking. They come in different shapes and sizes, and each one has its own purpose. Two types of chisels that are commonly used for woodworking are bench chisels and butt chisels. But what is the difference between the two?
The Anatomy of a Bench Chisel
A bench chisel typically has a longer blade and a narrower flat back than a butt chisel. The blade is usually wider at the cutting edge and tapers down towards the handle. The handle is also longer and provides a larger grip area. Bench chisels are commonly used for general chiseling, mortising, and paring.
The Anatomy of a Butt Chisel
Butt chisels, on the other hand, have a shorter blade and a wider, flat back. The blade and handle are usually of the same width, providing a narrow grip area. Butt chisels are commonly used for precise work on small joints, such as dovetails and box joints.
Which Chisel to Use When
Deciding on which chisel to use depends on the task at hand. Bench chisels are more versatile and can tackle a wide range of tasks. They are better suited for general-purpose chiseling, mortising, and paring. Butt chisels are more specialized and are better suited for delicate work on smaller joints, such as dovetails and box joints.
Bench chisels and butt chisels are both essential tools for woodworking. While bench chisels are more versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks, butt chisels are more specialized and are better suited for delicate work on smaller joints. Understanding the differences between the two will help you choose the right chisel for your project.
