Fujikawa Oire Bench Chisels are Japanese oire nomi, traditional bench chisels, in 13 widths from 3 to 48 mm: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 30, 32, 36, 42 and 48 mm.
Each blade is forge-welded: a cutting layer of Shirogami No. 2 white paper steel, hardened to about 62 to 63 HRC, on a softer body. The handles are Japanese red oak with a steel hoop, and the chisels are about 220 mm (8-3/4 in) overall. The handle stands slightly proud of the hoop so the hammer strikes wood, not metal, and over time the end mushrooms over the hoop, as it should on a Japanese chisel. The blades come hand ground at about 30 to 34 degrees, ready for you to hone.
A Note on Use
Japanese chisels are fine tools, not pry bars. They are best suited to experienced framers and woodworkers, or anyone willing to slow down and learn the tool.
The hard cutting steel takes and holds a remarkably keen edge, but harder steel is also more brittle. Use them to pare and chop. Never pry or lever with them: prying will likely chip the edge or break off a corner. Keep them clear of nails, and don't drop them on concrete (surprising, we know!).
These come from the Fujikawa forge in Miki City, in Japan's Hyogo Prefecture, where Mr. Fujikawa insists on completely traditional methods.
