Wood Chisels

SUIZAN’s oire nomi are versatile Japanese chisels for chopping mortises and paring joints by hand.

  • Made in Japan: SUIZAN chisels are manufactured in Japan, drawing on a long tradition of Japanese blade making.
  • Hardened Steel Blades: Traditional hardening increases blade hardness, helping resist wear and maintain a sharp cutting edge.
  • Hollow Backs: The recessed back reduces the surface area to flatten, making it easier to sharpen and achieve a keen cutting edge.

How to Choose a Japanese Wood Chisel

① Your First Chisels: for Everyday Joinery

Choose your first chisel to match your most common joints.

  • 1/2" / 12mm: A useful starting point for general joinery.
  • 3/8" / 9mm: Add this narrower blade for smaller joints and confined spaces.
  • 11/16" / 18mm: Add this wider blade for larger joints and broader paring work.

② Choose Blade Width for Your Task

Choose a blade width suited to your task and the size of the area you’re working on.

  • Narrower Blades: Choose these for small mortises and detailed work.
  • Wider Blades: Choose these for paring broad surfaces or trimming joint shoulders.

SUIZAN offers eight sizes, from 1/8" / 3mm to 1-7/16" / 36mm, so you can add widths as needed.

Unsure Which Sizes to Choose? Get All Eight.

If you’re unsure which sizes to choose, the Japanese Chisel Set brings together all eight widths, from 1/8" / 3mm to 1-7/16" / 36mm.
Available exclusively through our online store, this eight-piece set comes in a traditional paulownia wood box, wrapped in a golden-brown furoshiki cloth made by Kyoto artisans.

✓ Ships direct from Japan

Shop the Japanese Chisel Set · $388.00

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FAQ

Which chisel sizes should I buy first?

If you’re buying your first chisel, a 1/2" / 12mm model is a useful starting point for general joinery.
If you already own chisels, consider a Japanese chisel in a width your collection lacks, provided it suits your projects. A narrower blade can help with small joints, while a wider blade can cover broader paring work.
Alternatively, choose a width you use often to compare how it handles familiar joinery tasks.

Can I use a regular hammer with Japanese chisels?

Yes, a steel hammer can be used with SUIZAN’s oire nomi when the handle and hoop are properly fitted.
For controlled chopping, we recommend a wooden mallet or a Japanese woodworking hammer called a genno. The steel hoop at the handle end helps prevent the wood from splitting under repeated blows. Check that the handle and hoop are secure before use, and avoid excessive force.