Slick (tool)


A slick is a large chisel, characterized by a wide, heavy blade, and a long, frequently slender, socketed handle. The combined blade and handle can reach two feet in length. The blade of a slick is slightly curved lengthwise, and/or the handle socket is cranked upward, such that the handle and socket clear the surface of the work when the edge is touching. This distinguishes the slick from the similarly-sized, short-handled millwright's chisel.

Use

A slick is always pushed; never struck. Using a combination of the tool's weight and bracing the handle against the shoulder or upper arm, fine paring cuts are made. Slicks are used mostly by shipwrights and timber framers.