This tool makes round-bottomed grooves that add interest and variety to mokume gane patterns. The cutting edge of this chisel is sharp enough to easily cut through brass, nickel and copper. It can be sharpened as it is made entirely of metal. Because it's all metal, it's more durable. The short handle makes it more precise to control, but the straight, thin handle is too small to fit even in my relatively small hand. I wrap it with a wooden handle, tape over a cloth or bandage.