Chisels

[Ron Nossaman]

> Many chisels, especially high-end chisels, have a cap on the end of the 
> handle to protect it from damage when it is "hammered on" with a wooden 
> maul.  To do so is legitimate for some wood carving applications, but 
> not for bridge notching.  If you keep the tool sharp enough, there is no 
> need to pound on it with anything, not even the heel of your palm.  With 
> a sharp chisel, a strong forward and downward rotating thrust will do 
> the job, even on a laminated cap.  I find the cap on the end of a chisel 
> annoying for bridge notching.  I prefer a wood turning chisel, as used 
> with a lathe, with the cutting tip ground to my liking.  The longer 
> handle gives a little better control of the "scoop." 
>  
> Frank Emerson


"Long" always worked best for me. A long bladed 1" paring 
chisel is my choice for hand notching.

Something similar to - 
http://www.traditionalwoodworker.com/default.php?cPath=39_171_214
Ron N