Brick Bolsters & Chisels

Learn more about brick bolsters and chisels

A brick bolster has a wide, flat cutting edge for scoring and splitting bricks and blocks. A masonry chisel is usually narrower, which gives you more control for chasing out mortar, working joints and breaking out damaged masonry.

The trade-off is simple. A wider bolster is better for cleaner split work and general brick cutting, while a narrower masonry chisel is better when you need control around joints, repairs and mortar removal. If you’re working on harder or older materials, take measured blows and check the substrate first, because the tool choice depends on the material and the level of control you need.

Typical uses

• Trimming bricks to size for walls, reveals and awkward junctions.

• Removing mortar for pointing and repointing work.

• Breaking out damaged masonry or bedding mortar in repairs.

• Making controlled cuts where a brick cutting chisel or masonry demolition chisel is needed.

• General brickworking jobs where a bolster tool suits the task better than a standard cold chisel.

How to choose the right brick bolster or chisel

• Blade width: Choose broad 75mm to 100mm brick bolsters for splitting standard bricks cleanly in one blow. Opt for narrower 12mm to 25mm cold chisels for localized channeling, mortar raking, and targeted metal cutting.

• Safety handguards: For heavy-impact demolition or working in awkward positions, choose tools with thick rubber or plastic handguards to absorb vibration and shield your hand from stray hammer strikes.

• Steel hardening & tempering: Ensure your tool features a correctly tempered striking head—this allows the head to mushroom slightly over time rather than shattering dangerously under heavy club hammer blows.

• Safety gear: Use suitable PPE and follow site safety requirements when striking masonry tools.

Before you order

• Review the product specifications for length, edge width and compatibility.

• Confirm whether you need the tool for cutting, chasing or mortar removal.

• Check the material and finish in the listing so you know what you’re getting.

• Make sure the specification suits the brick type and the control you need on site.

• If you're ordering for more than one job, choose the sizes that match the work you have lined up.

Explore our range of brick bolsters and chisels

Browse brick bolsters and chisels, including options for brickworking, mortar removal and light demolition tasks. You can compare product specifications online, then use our free Click & Collect service or delivery when you need it.

Travis Perkins supports professional tradespeople with specialist product expertise, reliable stock availability and a nationwide network of hundreds of branches. If you need a brick bolster chisel, a masonry bolster chisel or a brick chisel for a specific job, our branch teams can help you choose a specification that fits the task.