Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Nov 30, 2008 03:19am | #1

   Joe,

   I keep my less used chisels in a tray in drawer in my tool chest and my utility chisels in a block that stays out all of the time on my bench.

   A simple block with holes or rectangular mortises in it is one possibility for a cabinet installation also. If the block could simply sit on the bottom of the cabinet it could be removed as needed to take to the bench and easily modified or replaced as your chisel assortment changes.

   Another common style, open channels for each chisel on a tipped back panel, is shown on the cover of FWW issue #200 from not too long ago. On any type of rack I would only set it up with the tips down and shielded from damage. The advantage of this type of rack is that you can clearly see the entire blade for easy identification and the chisel is removed by simply lifting it forward so no extra clearance is needed above the rack. The tip back means you have to have a deeper cabinet but it might be possible to use magnets to hold the chisels securely in a more upright position.

   Hope this helps, John White

1. 
   londonjoe40 | Dec 01, 2008 12:12am | #2

   Hello John,

   Thank you for the reply. I am very interested in the chisel holding block that you mention in the email. It definitely frees up some much needed space in my cabinet. There are about ten chisels that I want to house in the block(s). What sort of design works best to preserve the sharp edge?

   Is it OK for the edge to touch a wood bottom or would a bottom of a softer material do a better job? Or is it better for the chisel to not touch the bottom at all? This may be achieved by a magnet or a form fitted hole. Keep in mind that this block is going to be moved around quite often. I appreciate any help.

   Sincerely,

   Joe

1. 
   JohnWW | Dec 01, 2008 06:06pm | #3

   There is no need to pad the bottoms of the holes in the block, the edges won't be damaged by just resting against the wood.John White