Chisel

A collection of flint chisels. The chisel is used by facing one end into the material to be carved/chipped, then striking the other end with a hammer or rock to impart force. The struck end is often cushioned by a cloth or hide to prevent the tool itself from chipping.

A chisel is a tool used to chip and carve objects including wood and rock.

Description

It is a rod with an angular head that can concentrate a large amount of force in one small area at its point. Chisels are often made from rock or metal. Stones suitable for chiseling should be long enough to be held safely in one hand and thick enough that they do not shatter when struck. Quartzite and flint are good choices and can be distinguished by their glassy/crystalline and dark grey appearances respectively, usually in areas with limestone deposits.

Use

The user strikes the handle or padded end of the chisel with a heavy object such as a hammer or large rock, angling the chisel head to achieve the desired direction of chipping. In order to use a chisel on something, the material being chiseled must be softer than the material the chisel head is made from. For example, a chisel head made of soft sandstone would itself break if one attempted to use it to chisel a harder material such as obsidian.

Dependencies

• Stone
• Metal
  • Chisel
    • Stone
    • Wood

See also

• Knife
• Needle
• Spear
• Tools