What is the characteristic of a butt chisel?

A butt chisel is specifically designed with a short blade, which allows for greater control and precision when working in tight spaces. This characteristic makes it ideal for close work, such as when fine details or intricate cuts are required in woodworking or carpentry. The short blade enables the user to maneuver easily without the risk of damaging surrounding materials, which is essential in detailed tasks.

The other options suggest different types of chisels or uses that do not align with the primary purpose of a butt chisel. For example, while a narrow blade indeed aids in mortising, it does not emphasize the short blade specific to a butt chisel's design. Similarly, rough work typically requires more robust tools, while a heavy blade for cutting metal describes chisels used in metalworking, which is outside the typical application for a butt chisel in woodworking scenarios.