When stepping into the world of woodworking, one of the most vital hand tools you'll use is the humble chisel. Chisels come in various types, each designed for a specific task, and understanding which ones to include in your toolkit can help you work more effectively. Choosing the right chisel for your woodworking goals will save you money, space, and frustration as you progress in your craft.
The most versatile of the bunch is the bench chisel. Often described as the Swiss Army knife of chisels, it performs a wide range of tasks such as cutting joints, trimming edges, and cleaning up corners. A good starting set includes a three-quarter inch and a one-quarter inch chisel. These sizes correspond well with standard timber dimensions, making them ideal for mortise and tenon or dado joints. As a general rule, the adjoining piece in a joint should be one-third the thickness of the main piece, which aligns perfectly with these chisel sizes.
Next up is the paring chisel, used for fine-tuning joints and delicate shaving tasks. With a long, thin blade and extended handle, this chisel is designed to be pushed by hand, not struck with a mallet. It's great for precise work where control is more important than force. Many experienced woodworkers swear by the paring chisel for finishing dovetails or trimming tenons to exact dimensions.
If your projects require stronger joints, you'll want to consider a mortise chisel. Theseare much thicker than bench or paring chisels and are designed to withstand mallet strikes. Their sturdy construction makes them ideal for creating mortises. While many woodworkers can use a robust bench chisel for mortising initially, upgrading to a dedicated mortise chisel improves both speed and accuracy. This tool is especially handy when creating traditional frame-and-panel construction.
Another helpful addition, especially when working with large pieces, is a wide chisel such as a 1.5-inch blade. This is useful for quickly removing lots of waste material. It's not essential when you're just starting out, but it can make certain jobs go much faster. Think of it like a bulldozer in your tool kit—not for every job, but powerful when needed. 
When buying your first chisels, don’t be tempted to purchase an entire set of different widths. Most woodworkers find they consistently use just a few sizes. Focus instead on high-quality tools in the sizes you’ll use most frequently. Look for chisels with comfortable handles, durable steel, and edges that are easy to sharpen. Two bench chisels, one paring chisel, and possibly a mortise chisel will cover a broad range of needs. These tools form the foundation of a woodworking setup capable of tackling most joinery tasks.
Ultimately, thoughtful selection of chisels tailored to your woodworking goals will result in better outcomes, fewer mistakes, and a more enjoyable experience. Whether you're crafting fine furniture or building basic shelves, a well-chosen chisel is indispensable. Invest wisely, take good care of your tools, and let your projects speak to the craftsmanship only sharp, dependable chisels can help you achieve.