History

• Chisels have long been used in woodworking. It is open to debate whether the Egyptian or Chinese cultures were the first to use a chisel. What is known is that both cultures have written histories showing chisel use. Antique chisels dating back to the Middle Ages are displayed in museums, and modern wood chisels haven't changed much from their ancient counterparts.
  
  

Function

• Chisels are used to remove unwanted wood. From framing chisels to Japanese micro chisels, the purpose of the tool is to take away the excess wood from a building timber or a sculptured work of art. Vintage chisels may be collected as art objects or by those who plan to use them in the trade.
  
  

Types

• The three major types of chisels are carpenters, lathe and woodcarving. They have in common a flat beveled blade and a handle. How they are used is where they differ. Larger carpenter's chisels are used with a mallet to force the chisel into the wood. Lathe chisels are used in conjunction with a revolving lathe to remove excess material as the wood spins. Woodcarving chisels are used by hand to form smaller shapes and designs.
  
  

Geography

• Vintage wood chisels are available from around the world. Many were forged and shaped by blacksmiths in their country of origin specifically for an individual craftsman or for a specific need. Vintage Japanese chisels, because of their metallurgic processes are highly prized. In the United States, chisels manufactured by Stanley before 1950 are popular collectibles.
  
  

Identification

• Its thick, beveled blade makes a chisel easily recognized. The degree of bevel may be anywhere from 20 to 30 degrees, depending on the intended use of the chisel. The end of the chisel is flat across. A skew chisel has a 30-degree bevel and the end of the tool is cut in a diagonal angle. A gouge chisel is recognized by the curve in the end of the blade.
  
  

Considerations

• Vintage wood chisels are often found at farm auctions and flea markets. Some antique stores will carry vintage chisels and other wood working equipment. EBay can also be a source for locating vintage chisels as well as discussion boards specializing in woodworking. The book "Antique Tool Collectors Guide to Value" by Ronald S. Barlow is an excellent reference source to learn about vintage tool prices.