Kirschen Carving Tools - Buy Online

Kirschen carving tools

The company Kirschen, as a leading German manufacturer of carving tools, forges exclusively by hand and uses a special high-carbon tool steel. This gentle material deformation is the foundation for the high quality and long lifespan of „Kirschen” tools. The highly polished surface makes sharpening and honing easier. The hardness is 61 HRc.

The numbers can help you orient yourself in the selection process.
Example: C312912
C = designates the manufacturer "KIRSCHEN"
31 = Series 31, which are full-size sculptor’s chisels.
29 = the middle two digits indicate the internationally used series number.
12 = designates the cutting width in mm (exception: decorative tools)

On this page, you will find only sculptor’s tools from Series 31, which are full-size. Their total length is usually 24 to 26 cm; some very wide tools can be a bit longer. The dimensions are adapted to the respective requirements, so narrow chisels are crafted lighter and more manageable than wider tools. Wider tools are also more often worked with a mallet, so they must withstand stronger stress. The octagonal white beech handle is also adapted in size to the respective chisel shape and has a metal ring to prevent splitting when worked with a mallet.

Beginners are recommended to start with the chisels from Series 31 and then, as they gain experience, acquire other tools such as chip carving chisels, etc.

The series numbers indicate the cutting shapes. For example, series 1 indicates a straight edge, series 3 a very slightly hollowed edge, and series 11 a strongly hollowed edge. The V-shaped edge is also known as „goosefoot,” available in series 39 to 45, which denote specific angles here. In addition, there are special forms such as decorative tools for the finest cuts and the somewhat more delicate flower chisels with a thin shaft.

Besides the series numbers, the shape of the shaft is important. The shaft can be straight, as is the case with the vast majority of chisels. Then there are curved tools that have a bend over the entire length of the shaft and offset tools that are bent only in the front third. They are very suitable for hollowing. The special form of the reverse offset shaft is particularly suitable for external rounding.

Important: The illustrated series and tool images are as true to nature as possible. Small variations in shape and size, however, are unavoidable with hand-forged tools.