The Basics of Chisels: Firmer and Sash Mortise Chisel
Chisels are commonly used woodworking tools that come in various types and sizes. But, two of the most important chisels in this craft are the firmer chisel and the sash mortise chisel. Although they are both designed for specific woodworking tasks, the firmer and sash mortise chisel have significant differences in their features, and it’s essential to understand these differences to use them effectively.
Understanding Firmer Chisels
Firmer chisels are used to produce precise cuts in hardwoods, softwoods, and timber framing. They are bench chisels that are sturdy, and their flat back is perfect for marking out joints. Also, they have a rectangular blade that is sharpened and can be ground to an angle that suits the task at hand. This type of chisel is best for chopping, paring cuts, and finishing sharp corners.
Understanding Sash Mortise Chisels
Sash mortise chisels are designed for cutting mortise holes in window sashes and cabinets or any joinery work. They are large and have a round body, making it easy to grasp and exert consistent pressure on the chisel head. The blade has a rectangular shape, but it is thinner than a firmer chisel. Sash mortise chisels are primarily used to chop mortises as the blade has a bevel on both sides- one side for mortising and the other for levering up timber.
The Significant Differences Between These Two Chisels
The key difference between a firmer and a sash mortise chisel is the shape of their blades. The firmer chisel has a flat back and a bevelled cutting edge, while the sash mortise chisel has a rectangular blade with a rounded body. The firmer chisel is also more versatile and can be used for various woodworking tasks, while the sash mortise chisel is primarily used for its purpose- cutting mortises.
Firmer chisels are shorter in size, and their blades are thicker compared to sash mortise chisels. This design makes firmer chisels sturdier, allowing them to be used for tasks that require significant force, such as chopping and paring. In contrast, sash mortise chisels are designed to be longer and thinner to allow the user to create precise cuts on mortise holes.
Choosing the Right Chisel for Your Woodworking Task
Choosing the right chisel for your woodworking task is crucial to make precise cuts and have quality outcomes. Both firmer and sash mortise chisels serve specific purposes, and they have significant differences that you should consider when selecting one. If you’re looking for a chisel that offers more versatility and can be used for various tasks, firmer chisels are an excellent option. But suppose you need to cut mortises for window sashes or any joinery work; the sash mortise chisel is the perfect tool to get the job done.
