DeWalt 3/4 in. Wood Chisel

The DeWalt 3/4 in. Wood Chisel (model DWHT16850) is a tool that I’ve had the opportunity to put through its paces on various woodworking projects. As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and part-time woodworker, I’m always on the lookout for tools that balance quality, performance, and price. This chisel, with its tempered carbon steel blade and ergonomic handle, seemed like a promising addition to my toolbox.

Firstly, the design and build of this chisel are quite appealing. The handle is crafted from a bi-material composition, combining hard yellow plastic with overlaid black rubber. This not only provides a comfortable grip but also ensures a non-slip hold, which is crucial during intricate woodworking tasks. The handle also features a thick metal strike cap, which is flat and designed to withstand hammer strikes. This feature is particularly useful when you need to apply significant force without worrying about damaging the handle.

The blade is made of tempered carbon steel, which is touted for its durability and ability to maintain a sharp edge. Out of the package, the blade was reasonably sharp, though not razor-sharp. I found it necessary to hone the edge a bit more to achieve the fine, precise cuts I prefer. The blade’s lacquered finish is a nice touch, providing some protection against corrosion. However, I did notice a bit of rust forming after some time in my garage, so it’s essential to store this tool properly and perhaps apply a light coat of oil if you’re in a humid environment.

In terms of performance, the chisel excels in softwood applications. I used it to notch out hinges for a door replacement and to create mortises for a deadbolt installation. In both cases, the chisel performed admirably, allowing for clean, precise cuts. The ergonomic handle made it comfortable to use for extended periods, and the metal strike cap handled repeated hammer blows without showing signs of deformation.

However, the chisel’s performance in hardwood applications was a bit of a mixed bag. While it managed to handle some hardwood tasks, the blade did show signs of wear and needed frequent re-sharpening. This is where the quality of the carbon steel comes into question. It doesn’t seem to be high-carbon steel, which is known for maintaining a sharp edge longer. For professional woodworkers dealing with hardwoods, this might be a drawback. The blade’s edge also chipped when it accidentally struck a small nail embedded in the wood, rendering it unusable until I could re-sharpen it.

Despite these issues, the chisel’s versatility cannot be ignored. It’s a great tool for general woodworking tasks around the house. I even used it for some unconventional tasks, like removing Sago Palm pups from their parent plants, and it performed surprisingly well. The reusable packaging is a thoughtful addition, allowing for safe storage and helping to maintain the blade’s sharpness.

One of the standout features of this chisel is its strike cap. The cap’s durability is impressive, and it shows no signs of wear even after heavy use. This makes the chisel ideal for tasks that require a bit more force, such as prying or twisting wood. The handle’s design ensures that it doesn’t twist or slip, providing a stable and secure grip.

Overall, the DeWalt 3/4 in. Wood Chisel is a solid mid-range tool that offers good value for its price. It’s not the highest quality chisel on the market, but it’s well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and occasional woodworkers who need a reliable tool for general tasks. The ergonomic handle, durable strike cap, and reasonably sharp blade make it a useful addition to any toolbox.

Would I recommend this chisel? Yes, but with some caveats. If you’re a professional woodworker or frequently work with hardwoods, you might want to invest in a higher-quality chisel with a high-carbon steel blade. However, for general woodworking tasks around the house, this chisel performs well and offers good value for its price. Just be mindful of its limitations and take care to maintain the blade’s sharpness and prevent corrosion.