Cold Chisel

The Cold Chisel's cutting edge is typically shaped on a bench grinder, though an angle grinder could be used (holding the chisel in a vise). And you can certainly use a file to do this (especially if you have as my father called a, "strong back, weak mind").


The U.S. War Department's TM 9-867 Maintenance and Care of Hand Tools advocates grinding off the corners of the cutting edge so that the cutting edge has a convex shape as shown to the left. This is similar to adding camber to a wood plane's blade.

The main rule of this class is to not be a dumbass.

Unknown Shop Teacher

I haven't tried this to gain an understanding of the value. Rather, I see more value in sharpening often.

General Guidelines
β Comments
60° - 70°

Can be up to 90° if cutting extremely hard metals.

Notes & Comments

Information regarding Grindstones

If grinding this on a high speed grinder, be sure to manage the temperature so that the temper is not lost due to overheating. If there is a carbide insert, DO NOT cool by dipping in water. This will cause the carbide to crack due to shocks. Otherwise, cool by dipping as needed in water.


More Information

Books & Papers

Videos & Presentations

Web Sites



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About this site
Remember : The goal of sharpening is to produce sharp tools, and these tools can injure you if mishandled. Safety measures should be followed to protect yourself and those in your shop. Be sure to read and follow all instructions from the manufacturer, and and utilize proper safety equipment. Never consume alcohol or anything that could impair your judgement before sharpening tools, or using sharp tools. Comments can be sent via eMail to me at SharpeningHandbook@Gmail.com.