Maintenance
19
Chisels and bits should be kept sharp for best
performance, a discoloured tip is usually a sign of
excessive heat caused by a blunt auger and/or chisel.
Bits are best sharpened with a small file and chisels
with the special mortice chisel sharpeners, see our
catalogue or visit our website at axminster.co.uk
Burrs can be removed from the sides of the chisel on a
fine oilstone or waterstone but great care must be taken
not to taper the chisel as this will cause the chisel to jam
in the timber.
Fig 37
Fig 37
Fig 38
Chisel Abrasion
Look into the hollow of the chisel and check around the
corners for signs of dulled or rounded corners, see fig 37.
If there are any deviations in the chisel we recommend
using the multi- flute conical reamer sharpening set, code
700173 with the appropriate size pilot piece, just a few
turns removes a tiny amount of metal from the chisel’s
internal bevel.
When abrasion occurs to the extent that the chisel bit tip
becomes thin and liable to break, it is advisable to replace
it with a new one.
Square corner
Inside of Spur
Bevelled area
Sharpening Chisel Auger Bit
A well sharpened auger bit will cut more efficiently,
passing easily through the twist and being ejected
through the slot in the side of the chisel. Sharpen the
spur on the auger bit using a small square or flat file and
sharpen the inside only, see figs 37-38.
WARNING!! DO NOT SHARPEN, STONE OR GRIND
THE BIT ON THE OUTSIDE WHICH WILL REDUCE
ITS DIAMETER CAUSING WOOD SHAVINGS TO
BUILD UP INSIDE THE CHISEL!
File
Spur
Introduction
