A chisel is a striking tool featuring a metal blade, typically secured to a handle, designed for the precise cutting, shaping, or removal of material from a workpiece. Its effectiveness is determined by the geometry of the blade's edge and cross-section, which must be appropriate for the specific medium being altered, whether it be stone, wood, or various metals. Specialized variations exist to achieve different functions; for instance, some designs feature pointed tips for piercing, while others possess flat or angled edges optimized for scooping or detailed carving. The operational efficiency of a chisel relies on managing the force applied during impact or scraping, allowing for controlled material displacement.