Matsumura
Matsu Blue Paper Steel Chisel Set 10-piece - Matsumura
During a recent visit to Japan, we visited Mr. Matsumura in his shop. He had just recently developed these extraordinary chisels. We were taken back by their quality and usefulness. Made from the finest Hitachi Blue Paper Steel. The shorter lengths give the craftsman more control,...
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The Matsumura Family has been producing woodworking chisels for well over 200 years. Mr. Shigezo Matsumura began his apprenticeship at the age of 15 and exhibited such skill that by the age of 25 he was able to open his own workshop. For over 60 years, first as an apprentice and now as a true Master of Blacksmiths, Mr. Matsumura has made chisels one at a time in the old tradition, preferring to use charcoal instead of gas in the forging and tempering process, because of its 'sof heat,' and only the finest white and blue steels for the cutting edges, which are laminated to wrought iron for strength. All cutting edges are tempered to Rc64 and sharpened for immediate use. Note: Mr. Matsumura operates a one-man shop and personally makes each tool, with occasional assist from his wife.
Articles & Blogs
Handmade Japanese Chisels: Guided by the Masters’ Hands
A handmade chisel is more than a woodworking tool. It imbues the spirit of that Master Blacksmith and his heritage. It represents hours of the maker’s focused energy and the work of his hands. It carries on the Japanese toolmaking tradition. Those things cannot be sought through a mass-produced instrument. The discriminating craftsman should own at least one handmade Japanese chisel (or a set!) in his or her lifetime. Learn more about the makers and their chisels in this Woodworking Adventures blog.
