Chisel Set — Lutherie Encyclopedia

Chisel SetType: toolA collection of bench chisels in graduated widths for mortising, paring, and detail work in guitar construction.## Description A chisel set for lutherie typically includes bench chisels in widths ranging from 3mm to 25mm. These are bevel-edged chisels with flat backs, ground to a primary bevel of 25 degrees and often honed with a secondary micro-bevel at 30 degrees. The handles may be wood or composite, and the blades are made from high-carbon or alloy steel. Lutherie chisels tend to be shorter than standard bench chisels for better control in fine work. ## Use in Lutherie Chisels are used constantly in guitar building. Common tasks include cutting mortises for neck joints, trimming kerfing to fit braces, cleaning up binding channels, squaring the ends of fret slots, paring bridge plates, and removing dried glue squeeze-out. Narrow chisels (3mm to 6mm) are especially valuable for detail work in tight spaces such as around the soundhole rosette or headstock slot. Wider chisels (12mm to 25mm) handle broader paring tasks like flattening glue surfaces and trimming brace ends. ## Selection Guide Japanese chisels offer excellent edge retention and are popular among luthiers, though Western-style bevel-edge chisels from makers like Narex, Two Cherries, or Lie-Nielsen are equally capable. The most useful widths for lutherie are 3mm, 6mm, 10mm, 15mm, and 25mm. Prioritize blade quality and sharpening ease over handle aesthetics. A decent set of five chisels costs 40 to 250 dollars, depending on the maker. ## Tips - Always pare away from your body, or use a mallet for controlled cuts. - Flatten…