What are the basic parts of a chase wedge?
What are the basic parts of a chase wedge? |
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Metal ferrule |
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A ferrule is a metal ring or cap used to reinforce tools to prevent splitting and wear.
The ferrule on a wooden chase wedge strengthens the end of the handle and protects it from damage when being struck with a mallet. |
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Straight pattern |
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A chase wedge has a straight, thin edge rather than the rounded corners found on other lead working tools (such as the lead dresser). | |||
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When working soft metals such as lead, it is important that any direct contact from the tool will not be visible in the finished product (e.g. bruising or damaging the metal).
A straight edge is ideal for driving bossed metal sheets into contours, angles and corners while minimising unsightly bumps and blemishes in the surface. |
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A lead dresser, for example, has a flat edge and is used to smooth and even out lead and other soft metals before forming them into complex shapes. | |||
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The straight line of a chase wedge, however, is ideal for working the angles of a piece of flashing into tight corners or awkward positions. | |||
Moulded handle |
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The wooden handle has been formed to fit most hands – large and small, left or right-handed.
Its moulded shape will help you to hold the chase wedge easily while minimising hand and wrist strain |
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A plastic chase wedge has also been designed to fit comfortably in your hand.
However, there is not normally a metal ferrule at the end of the handle. Instead, the handle is slighter wider at the end to protect your hand and the rest of the tool from the mallet’s impact. |
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