Irwin Marples M373 Splitof B/E Chisel 2In

A stunning price for a Marples 2” chisel. I have no idea why this monolithic chisel is cheaper than a 1 ½” or 1 ¼” of the same design. I have had a full set (abate from this one) of Marples split proof chisels for a good 15 to 20 years. They are made with quality steel that will take a good edge (and hold it) and combined with a comfortable handle that does exactly what is says it will; not split (even if you are giving it a good beating with a claw hammer). As one reviewer stated it does not come fully honed but then why would it at less than £15 including delivery? Besides, if you have need of a chisel you should know how to sharpen one. I spent about 20 minutes flattening the back, putting a decent edge on it then polishing it to a mirror finish. Time well spent and I was rewarded with a blade that easily shaved the hair off my forearm. It is worth mentioning that I also took a file to the sides of the blade to take off the sharp and uncomfortable arrises. Be warned they are sharp enough to cut you if you slide a tight grip down the blade. I am a full-time carpenter and this chisel is used, almost on a daily basis. It has quickly become my favourite chisel, especially for when installing locks and cutting out hinge recesses. Grab one. At this price you would be a fool not to.

Great quality chisel! Very sharp and strong and comfortable to use. Done a lot of work making joints in plenty of very large hardwood beams and it still looks almost new. When making 300 mm x 200 mm wide x 100 mm deep half laps the blade could be an inch longer so as not to catch on the handle but I'm being picky now. If you need a heavy duty 2" chisel this is it.

Needed a little honing to be very sharp, but I would always do this out of habit anyway.

Great feel in the hand, very good steel, the lines of the blade are not the best but it does retain its edge well

It's a great chisel and I only got this one because it was on offer at the time at £9.99, so I thought I'd give it a go.