Carbide-Tipped Hand Tools

Hand Tools

Selecting the right size and type hand tool will save you time and money and give better results. The right size toll will fell comfortable in you hand and allow complete contact of blade to stone; using the right type of tool will help prevent breakage and make your work more efficient. Remember, whatever chisel you use, make sure your first hit is a light hit. This will help "set" the tool and put the blade fully in contact with the stone. Three commonly used hand tools are illustrated here:

* A Tracer is used to split stone. Mover your tracer back and forth along the split line, striking it until the stone splits. Hold it vertically to the stone.

* Trim and square your stone by tipping your Hand Set slightly back onto its edge and striking along your line. When your blade becomes dull, turn and use the other edge.

* Use a Hand Point to remove high spots by striking at different angles around the area to be removed For granite or other hard stone, hold the hand point vertically for the firs strike. This tool is also perfect for roughing out. Remember to trim the striking head and sharpen the blade regularly for safe and efficient use.

Soft Stone Mallet Head Chisels

1/2" Stock

All Styles available with either flat or rondel blades.

NOTE: Toothed blades not recommended on 1/2" stock tools.

Width

3/4"

1-1/4"

1-1/2"

2-1/2"

5/8" Stock

All Styles available with either flat, rondel or toothed blades.

Width

1-1/4"

1-1/2"

1-1/4" Carbide Heavy Hand Point

Hand Chisel

Stock

3/8"

1/2"

5/8"

3/4"

7/8"

Hand Set

Stock Width of Blade

1" 1-1/8"

1" 1-1/2"

1" 2"

1-1/8" 2"

1-1/8" 2-1/4"

1-1/8" 2-1/2"

1-1/8" 3"

1-1/8" 4"

Offset Hand Set

Stock Width of Blade

3/4" 1-1/4"

1" 1-1/8"

1" 1-1/2"

1" 2"

1-1/8" 2"

1-1/8" 2-1/2"

1-1/8" 3"

1-1/8" 4"

Flared Chisel

Traditionally designed steel blade Flared Chisels are available with either flat, rondel or toothed blades. Hex-shaped stocks are comfortable and well-balanced for fine work in softer stone. 1/2" hex sizes are also available with round shanks for use with pneumatic tools.

Stock Width of Blade

3/8" 1/2"

3/8" 5/8"

3/8" 3/4"

1/2" 5/8"

1/2" 3/4"

1/2" 1"

Softstone Hammer

These annealed (or unhardened) hammers produce a lighter blow, which can provide more control when working in softer stone. Excellent for lettering and detailing work, these Soft Stone Hammers are also less likely to bruise the stone. Includes 6" hardwood handle.

Weight

1-1/4 lbs.

1-1/2 lbs.

Carbide Tools

Good Maintenance of your carbide chisels lets you cut faster and more accurately. However, improper grinding can damage the carbide and cause tool failure.

To extend the life of your carbide-tipped chisel:

* When grinding leave corners slightly beveled. Very sharp or pointed carbide may break on harder stones.

* Don't forget to grind the shank end or striking head frequently to maintain the correct "as-new" shape for safe performance.

* Use care when storing or transporting carbide tools. Although tough and durable, carbide can break, especially when struck by another carbide tool.

* Never quench your carbide tool after grinding. Sudden changes in temperature can cause cracking or chipping of the tip, so always air cool your tool after grinding.

Marenakos Rock Center
30250 SE High Point Way
Preston, Washington
Tel: (425) 392-3313
Fax: (425) 392-7332