Review: Optima Mortise Chisels from Blue Spruce Toolworks
Dan Faia says these mortise chisels work as well as they look.I was excited to try out the new Optima mortise chisels from Blue Spruce Toolworks. I chose two of the most common sizes, 1⁄4 in. and 5⁄16 in., and they arrived as advertised—flat, sharp, and ready to work.
A steel core connects the striking cap to the blade, resulting in very solid mallet strikes. The chisels did a great job chopping, levering out waste, and maintaining an angle, delivering accurate mortises with clean walls. Figured-maple handles have a comfortable feel and complete the high-quality look.
I recommend these chisels for any woodworker who hand-cuts mortises.
—Dan Faia is a professional woodworker and educator in Rollinsford, N.H.
From Fine Woodworking #308
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Comments
I looked at these at the Woodworkers Show and they are beautiful feeling and looking tools. I wondered if they would take a pounding. It think Dan answered that question.
Be SAFE and have fun
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