Chisel Bit Basics

The Chisel Bit is a specialized diamond shaped diamond cutting tool. It is primarily used for cutting metals like steel, copper, brass, aluminum and even sometimes bronze. It has a diamond core and a large area of diamond teeth for cutting different shapes. It was developed in 1843 by German metalworker Carl Benzinger. It is one of the most frequently used cutting tools today.

The Chisel Bit is made of either brass or copper and is used mainly for cutting hard metal sheets. The design of the tool consists of a blade (point) and a cutting edge (bite). When inserted into an electric drill, it makes a tiny hole in the material being cut. This small piece of diamond crystals produces a point. The point then becomes the next step in the cutting process.

Different types of chisels can be used to perform different tasks. The most common chisel is a hammer chisel. This is primarily used for cutting softer materials. The chisel head usually contains multiple diamond points that can be used to work out shapes. These diamond bits can be reused numerous times to complete similar cuts.

A chisel can also be used to remove small amounts of mineral deposits from stone. If a piece of metal is scratched, a bit can be used to repair the surface without having to polish the piece. The fine abrasive used to remove the scratches makes a roughened finish on the piece. Some homeowners prefer to use a wood chisel because it allows them to experiment with different wood products.

Brad Point Forstner Bit: A Brad Point Forstner Bit is used primarily for cutting hard, dense materials like aluminum and copper. It is more commonly used to cut softer, lighter metals that require precision. A Brad Point Forstner Bit resembles a larger sander. It can be used in different positions along the edge to achieve different depth effects. This chisel has a taper point that allows for precise cuts.

Bulldozer Bit: Most homeowners do not think of using a bulldozer bit when trying to resurface a piece of metal. However, these devices are ideal for smoothing out a roughened surface. Because these pieces can be driven into soft metals, they are perfect for shaping doorknobs and doorstops. Most often seen in architectural buildings, these tools can even be used to create patterns and designs. When used to resurface a piece of copper, brass, or iron, homeowners should expect a higher price tag.

Floor Wiper Chisel: Using a floor wiper chisel is similar to using a band saw. Instead of pulling or pushing the wood or metal into a new shape, this chisel bit just slides across the surface. Floor wipers can be used to remove large pieces of wallpaper and tile. Homeowners should consider purchasing a bit with a diamond pattern or design. The diamond pattern will allow the homeowner to choose the diamond shape themselves.

These are only a few of the many shapes that can be purchased to perform a multitude of tasks. For the do-it-yourselfer, using a chisel bit is the simplest way to change the shape of a piece of metal or wood. A chisel can be purchased at almost any hardware store or lumber outlet. Before purchasing a chisel bit, it is important to consider how the job will be performed and which chisel will best accomplish the task.

Hand held chisels are a safer alternative to power drills, as they do not move at very high speeds. Hand held chisels are much more likely to inflict a strike to the user's hand if they accidentally chisel through something that is too hard or thick. The best way to determine which chisel bit is right for the job is to test it out. Many of the larger box stores carry a variety of chisels and bit sets in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles.

Power drills have become quite popular for home improvement projects. They are easy to use and can cut through most types of materials. However, they are much slower and require much more force than a chisel. For most projects where there is little or no movement required, the chisel is the ideal choice. Smaller chisels can be used on soft metals, while larger ones are best used for thicker materials.

With many woodworking tools, including chisels, it is important to know which size of chisel bit will work best for the project at hand. Each chisel bit is designed to work in specific circumstances. Chisels can be made from various types of metal and stone; however, the shape of the bit must match the shape of the piece being chiseled. For example, a diamond chisel bit would be good for cutting diamonds, but it would be nearly impossible to cut a square wood board with one. When using chisels for large projects that need to be moved around a lot, they should be rented beforehand to insure they will fit comfortably in the toolbox.