What action should be taken if a chisel has a mushroomed head?

When a chisel has a mushroomed head, it indicates that the tool has suffered from repeated impact or misuse, causing the metal to deform and create a rounded surface where it should be flat. While grinding the ragged edges can possibly restore some functionality to the chisel, it is essential to recognize that a secure and safe tool should be the priority.

Using a chisel with a mushroomed head, even with edges ground down, can still pose risks of injury or further tool failure. The deformation can lead to improper strikes and potentially dangerous situations. Therefore, the best practice is often to replace the tool entirely rather than attempting to repair it.

Choosing to remove the ragged edges by grinding might seem like a quick fix, but the integrity of the chisel is compromised, and the effectiveness in specific tasks may be reduced. In a workshop or operational setting, prioritizing safety and reliability is crucial, making the replacement of such tools a smarter choice to prevent incidents or accidents.