Irwin Marples MS500 Protouch All-Purpose Chisel - 16mm (5/8In)

The IRWIN Marples MS500 Series All-Purpose Chisels with ProTouch™ Handle. These chisels have a lar...

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Product Information

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The Irwin Marples MS500 Series All-Purpose Chisel (16mm) is designed for woodworkers seeking durability and comfort. Its key benefit lies in the robust construction and ergonomic handle, which reduces fatigue during prolonged use. A potential caveat for users is that while it's ready for immediate use, optimal results may require minor edge refinement depending on the task. This chisel features a one-piece forged blade, a reinforced striking cap, and a ProTouch™ handle for enhanced grip and vibration dampening, all crafted from special tool steel for a long-lasting sharp edge.

All features

Model Part NumberMS500
BrandIrwin

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is this chisel suitable for fine woodworking tasks?

Yes, it is suitable for general woodworking. For extremely fine or detailed work, a final sharpening touch-up might be beneficial.

What is the ProTouch™ handle made of?

The ProTouch™ handle is designed for comfort and grip, providing vibration dampening. The exact material composition is proprietary but focuses on user ergonomics.

How often should I expect to sharpen this chisel?

The special tool steel and hardening process provide a long-lasting edge. Sharpening frequency depends heavily on usage intensity and the type of wood being worked.

Can I use this chisel with a power planer?

No, this is a hand chisel designed for manual use with striking tools like mallets or hammers. It is not compatible with power tools.

What is the benefit of a one-piece blade forging?

A one-piece forging creates a stronger, more unified blade structure, reducing the risk of the blade separating from the handle or breaking under stress.

Does the chisel come with a blade guard?

Typically, chisels come with a protective sleeve or guard. Please check the product packaging for inclusions. It is recommended to use a guard when not in use for edge protection.

Troubleshooting

Chisel not cutting cleanly

The blade may be dull. Sharpen the cutting edge using a sharpening stone. Ensure you are using the correct chisel angle for the wood type.

Handle feels uncomfortable

Ensure you are holding the chisel correctly to utilize the ProTouch™ grip. The ergonomic design is intended to reduce fatigue with proper use.

Striking cap shows damage after use

Ensure hammer impacts are direct and centered on the striking cap. Avoid glancing blows. If damage is significant, professional assessment may be needed.

Blade appears to be rusting

Wipe the blade dry immediately after use and store in a dry environment. Apply a light coat of oil to the blade if storing for extended periods.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Durable construction due to one-piece blade forging.
  • Comfortable grip reduces user fatigue during long projects.
  • Long-lasting sharp edge minimizes re-sharpening needs.
  • Ready to use out of the box.
  • Reinforced striking cap enhances longevity.

Cons

  • May require additional sharpening for highly precise tasks.
  • Specific 16mm size might not be suitable for all applications.
  • Primarily designed for wood, may not perform optimally on other materials.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup: This chisel is honed and sharpened out of the box, ready for immediate use. For critical applications, a quick touch-up on a sharpening stone may enhance performance.

Compatibility: Designed primarily for woodworking. It is compatible with all standard mallets and hammers for striking.

Care:

  1. Cleaning: After each use, wipe the blade clean with a dry cloth to remove wood dust and resin.
  2. Storage: Store in a dry place to prevent rust. Consider using a chisel guard or storing it in a tool roll to protect the edge.
  3. Sharpening: When the edge dulls, use a sharpening stone (oil or water stone) and honing guide to maintain its sharpness. Refer to sharpening guides for best practices.
  4. Protection: Avoid dropping the chisel or using it for tasks it's not designed for, such as prying or cutting metal, to preserve the blade's integrity.