Bevel-edge chisels are versatile workhorses and the most common and useful chisel you’ll find in a workshop. They are often referred to as “bench chisels” as they tend to be left out on your workbench for easy access and frequent use. Bevel-edge chisels have both the durability for chopping cuts in conjunction with a mallet and the length for more delicate paring tasks. Well suited for joinery work, the bevelled edges allow easier access into corners. Bevel-edge chisels are also good for paring plugs flush, squaring routed corners and cleaning up tenons.

Some Japanese chisels are analogous to Western bevel-edge chisels in function, though they differ significantly in construction. Unlike their Western counterparts, Japanese chisels (also known as nomi) have a hollow-ground back and a laminated construction, making them highly durable and capable of holding a sharp edge for extended periods.