Meißel

Meißel is a German word that translates to "chisel" in English. It refers to a hand tool with a sharpened cutting edge, typically made of steel, used for carving or cutting hard materials like wood, stone, or metal. The tool consists of a shaped blade with a sharpened bevel at one end, and a handle at the other. The user applies force to the handle, often by striking it with a mallet or hammer, to drive the cutting edge into the material.

Chisels come in various forms and sizes, each designed for specific tasks. Wood chisels, for example, are commonly used by carpenters and sculptors to shape wood. They often have a long, slender blade and a wooden or plastic handle. Stone chisels, on the other hand, are typically more robust, with a wider, flatter blade and a metal striking surface on the handle to withstand repeated hammering. Metal chisels are used for cutting, shaping, and breaking metal.

The effectiveness of a chisel depends on the sharpness of its edge and the material it is made from. Proper sharpening is crucial for efficient and safe use. Chisels are fundamental tools in many crafts and trades, with a history dating back to prehistoric times, where they were initially made from stone or bone. Modern chisels are predominantly manufactured from hardened steel.