Timber framing chisels are specialized tools designed to shape, pare, and clean mortises with precision. The right chisel balances blade width, steel construction, and handle length to reduce fatigue and improve control. The four products below cover a range of tasks from rough mortise cleaning to fine paring. Each selection features a robust solid steel body, comfortable ash handles, and attention to balance for extended use. Whether tackling deep mortises or intricate corner work, these chisel choices are built to withstand repeated hammer blows while preserving edge integrity. Compare blade widths, lengths, and accessories to determine the best fit for your project.
| Product | Brand | Blade Width | Overall Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Sorby 289/289H60 Timber Framing Chisel | Robert Sorby | 2-3/8″ (60 mm) | 28″ | Off-set blade; Leather holster |
| Robert Sorby 287 Timber Framing Corner Chisel | Robert Sorby | 1″ | 18-1/2″ | Corner cleaning; Leather shock washer |
| Arno 467863 Solid Steel French Timber Framing Slick | ARNO | 1-3/8″ (35 mm) | 14″ | Solid steel, 58-60 Rockwell edge |
| Robert Sorby 285/285EG25 Timber Firmer Chisel | Robert Sorby | 1″ | 19-1/2″ | Square sides; Leather edge guard |
Robert Sorby 289/289H60 Timber Framing Chisel
This massive 2-3/8-inch wide slick is designed to rapidly flatten uneven surfaces on timber framing projects. The tool combines an 11-inch blade with a 17-inch ash handle for substantial cutting power at the tip, and a total length of 28 inches for extended reach. An off-set blade provides extra clearance when working in deep mortises or making long paring cuts, improving accuracy and reducing blade interference. The included leather holster enhances transport safety between sites, and the overall balance supports extended use without excessive fatigue.
Robert Sorby 287 Timber Framing Corner Chisel
This 1-inch corner chisel is ideal for cleaning out corners on large mortises in framing work. It features a 9-3/8-inch blade and a 9-1/8-inch ash handle, providing a compact yet capable tool. With an overall length of 18-1/2 inches, it balances reach and control, enabling precise reliefs in tight spaces. A traditional bolster, double steel hoops, and a leather shock washer reinforce the head for durability during repeated hammer blows. The square-edged design supports accurate, square corners for clean mortise preparation before joints are assembled.
Arno 467863 Solid Steel French Timber Framing Slick
ARNO’s solid steel French timber framing slick measures 35 mm wide (1-3/8″) and runs 14 inches long, delivering substantial heft for fast material removal. Weighing about 25 ounces, this all-in-one forging can withstand heavy hammer blows without bending. The single-piece construction boosts durability, while an edge hardened to 58-60 Rockwell ensures a sharp cutting edge. Ends are left moderately hardened to minimize the risk of edge fragmentation when struck. A PVC-dipped handle adds comfort and grip, supporting extended use in demanding framing tasks.
Robert Sorby 285/285EG25 Timber Firmer Chisel
This 1-inch wide timber firmer chisels out material when deep mortises require blade strength. The square-sided profile mirrors traditional firmer chisels for reliable stock removal and flat walls. It ships with a 9-inch ash handle and a 10-1/2 inch blade, yielding a total length of 19-1/2 inches for good leverage in larger openings. A leather edge guard protects the cutting edge during transport. The robust construction and longer blade make it well-suited for hogging out material in heavy frame assemblies, while maintaining control on the final walls.
Buying Guide
- Chisel type and task fit: Slick chisels excel at smoothing and paring large surfaces; firmers handle heavier hogging and material removal. Corner chisels are essential for clean inside corners in large mortises. Choose a blade width based on the mortise size and the need for quick material removal versus precision finishing.
- Blade width and length: Wider blades remove material faster but require more control and strength. Longer blades offer reach for deep mortises, while shorter blades improve maneuverability in tight spaces. Balance blade length with handle length for comfortable control over extended sessions.
- Handle design and material: Ash handles are common for timber chisels due to their shock absorption and grip. Look for ergonomic shaping and a secure tang to reduce fatigue during long workdays.
- Finishing and edge retention: Hardened cutting edges (often rated by Rockwell hardness) indicate better edge retention under hammer blows. Solid-piece forging increases durability and reduces the risk of blade separation during use.
- Durability features: Bolsters, leather shocks, and protective edge guards add longevity and safety. Consider chisels that come with protective sheaths or edge guards for transport between job sites.
- Maintenance and care: Clean and dry chisels after use to prevent rust, and occasionally re-sharpen edges to maintain clean paring results. A light coat of oil on metal surfaces helps resist corrosion.
- Use-case perspective: For rapid material removal in wide mortises, favor wide slicks. For precise finishing of corners, prioritize corner chisels. For traditional framing joints, firmer chisels with square profiles are often preferred.