7/8" Bevel Edge Socket Chisel Lie-Nielsen Toolworks

7/8" Bevel Edge Socket Chisel

1-C-B-7-8

$100.00

Bevel Edge Socket Chisels

Lie-Nielsen Chisels are based on the Stanley 750 Bevel Edge Socket Chisels. Socket chisels are not common these days, perhaps because they are expensive to make, but Stanley and others once produced these chisels in a vast array. Socket chisel handles are less likely to break than tang chisels, and can be replaced easily. Comfortable in the hand and with excellent balance.

A2 Tool Steel, hardened to Rockwell 60-62, cryogenically treated and double tempered
Beveled at 30º
For chisel sizes 3/4" or smaller, overall length is approximately 9"
Our 7/8" and 1" chisels are approximately 10-1/4" long
Hard Maple handles

View our YouTube video on Bevel Edge Socket Chisels here:

Click here to download a PDF copy of the instructions for this tool.

Geometry:

Edges are square, parallel along the length, and very narrow so you can get into tight places. The bevel is flat ground at 30º, the backs are ground flat and finished by hand at 400 grit.

Sharpening:

Chisels should be kept very sharp for best performance. The bevel is hand-lapped at 30º, but a higher secondary bevel of an additional 5º is advisable, depending on the wood and how the chisel is being used. On very hard woods, like oak, hard maple or exotic species, take lighter cuts and use a higher secondary bevel. Additional honing is recommended. Do not force the tool, especially when dull. Do not strike with a metal hammer.

You can find sharpening instructions in a printable PDF format on our Downloads page.

For more information on advanced sharpening we recommend David Charlesworth’s videos Plane Sharpening and Precision Preparation of Chisels for Accurate Joinery, available in both DVD and streaming formats.

Handles:

We’ve been using Maine grown Hornbeam for many years but, unfortunately, we are no longer able to secure a steady supply. So, we are now offering chisels with Hard Maple handles, which is very tough and a suitable substitute. If we’re able to acquire acceptable Hornbeam in the future, we’ll offer replacement handles in Hornbeam.

Re-Seating Handles:

When your Chisels arrive, the handles may be loose because of wood shrinkage. They may also loosen during dry weather. The handles are held in place by the wedging of the wood into the tapered socket. Just rap the chisel handle upside down to re-seat the handle. Although we’ve had chisel sets in our shop for years without the handles coming loose, some people have the opposite experience. One solution to a loose handle is to apply hair spray to the tapered section and re-seat as described. Strange as it may sound, it’s effective - and unlike glue, it’s reversible.

Removing Handles:

One of the advantages of the socket design is that if you want to change handles, you can simply tap the side of the handle on a board and pop the handle off.

Materials:

Our chisels are made of A2 Tool Steel, hardened to Rockwell 60-62, cryogenically treated and double tempered.

Maintenance:

To protect your chisels from rust, be sure to oil, wax and/or wrap the tools after use. We recommend Jojoba Oil, a plant based oil product that is non-toxic, odor-free and easy to use. Also, in our shop, we use a fine abrasive handblock to remove any light surface oxide from tool bodies and blades. Jojoba Oil and abrasive handblocks are available from us. Handles are oiled and buffed with wax to produce a natural finish. Wipe with oil as desired to refresh.

Find everything you need for tool care.

Guarantee:

Materials and workmanship are guaranteed for the life of your tool. Call for repairs or replacement parts. We are available for advice if you ever have a problem using your tool.