A cold chisel is forged from high-carbon steel and tempered to cut through softer metals. Mechanics use them to split rusted nuts, chop off rivet heads, or cut sheet metal. You strike the flat end with a heavy ball peen hammer. The cutting edge is ground to an angle of 60 to 70 degrees. Never use a cold chisel on wood or stone. Always wear safety glasses because metal slivers will fly when the chisel shears the metal.
Mechanic Glossary
Cold Chisel
A flat-tipped steel tool with a hardened cutting edge designed to cut through cold metal such as bolts, rivets, and sheet metal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use a bench grinder, keeping the tool cool by dipping it in water frequently. Grind the tip to a 60-degree angle, keeping the edge straight.
No. Claw hammers are brittle and can chip when striking hardened steel. Use a ball peen hammer or small sledge instead.
Place the chisel edge against the flat side of the nut, parallel to the bolt thread, and strike it firmly until the nut splits.