Which chisel is designed for chiseling narrow mortises?

The mortising chisel is specifically designed for chiseling narrow mortises, which are rectangular holes cut into wood to allow for the insertion of a tenon, typically for joinery purposes. This type of chisel features a thick blade that is designed to withstand the heavy tapping required when driving it into hardwood. The wider and more robust blade helps prevent breakage during use, providing a cleaner cut that is essential for accurately shaping mortises.

Its design often includes a slight angle on the cutting edge, which aids in the precision of creating narrow openings. In contrast, other chisels, such as the butt chisel, are used for general purpose woodworking and may not provide the same level of control or strength required for mortising tasks. The framing chisel, while useful for cutting larger joints and framing work, lacks the specific shape and robustness that a mortising chisel offers. The cold chisel is intended for metalworking, designed to cut or shape metal rather than wood.