I use a spring-loaded corner chisel (below)—and a few mallet taps—to square up corners of hinge mortises and similar recesses. But how do I sharpen it after the cutting edge dulls?
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Q:

I use a spring-loaded corner chisel (below)—and a few mallet taps—to square up corners of hinge mortises and similar recesses. But how do I sharpen it after the cutting edge dulls?
—Jessica Petrey, Danielson, Conn.

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A:

Remove the plate that holds the chisel in its housing, Jessica, taking care to not lose the spring concealed inside the housing. Then use a diamond file (woodcraft, no. 852974, 800-535-4482, woodcraft.com) to hone the inside bevels of the 90° tip. Keep the file flat against the beveled edges and make about 10–20 strokes per side; repeat until sharp. When finished, make a couple of passes on the flat back side to remove any burr, and reinstall the plate.