Timber Framers Guild Forums General General Forum Questions General - older posts Chain Mortiser vs. Chisel Mortiser

Am ready to purchase a mortiser and wondered if anyone had any thoughts or experience with chain vs. chisel mortiser (I am looking at Makita brands). I have used a chain mortiser and found it completely acceptable for prior projects, however it seems the chisel mortiser may have more flexibility in being able to use on smaller projects, however I have not had the opportunity to use one of these. Any thoughts or personal experiences on the pros and cons of each?

I have both, while the chisler is occasionally just the ticket it has it's limitations, (softwood only being one)and is far slower, cleanup included.

The chain is your best all around choice.

In general, I agree with Will.

However, the virtues of the hollow-chisel mortiser are unsurpassed in softwood. With smaller bits, it's a handy tool for making doors, as well.

Still, if I could only buy one, I'd opt for the chain model. Makita has just dropped the price, too, for some reason.

Good luck - and let me know if you figure out how to sharpen those chains effectively.