Which tool is used to mark (score) lines across wood, aiding cutting and chiselling joints to prevent tear-out?

Which tool is used to mark (score) lines across wood, aiding cutting and chiselling joints to prevent tear-out?

• A. Marking Knife
• B. Spokeshave
• C. Surform
• D. Combination Square

Answer: (A)

When you want to prevent tear-out and have a precise guide for cutting joints, you need a line that fibers will follow. A marking knife does this best because it actually cuts a narrow, clean groove into the wood, creating a crisp edge that guides the saw or chisel. That score helps you cut true and minimizes splintering as you work across the grain. The marking knife is specifically made for marking out lines with accuracy, whereas a spokeshave is for shaping curves, a Surform for rapid material removal, and a combination square mainly for measuring and layout rather than scoring the wood for joints.

When you want to prevent tear-out and have a precise guide for cutting joints, you need a line that fibers will follow. A marking knife does this best because it actually cuts a narrow, clean groove into the wood, creating a crisp edge that guides the saw or chisel. That score helps you cut true and minimizes splintering as you work across the grain. The marking knife is specifically made for marking out lines with accuracy, whereas a spokeshave is for shaping curves, a Surform for rapid material removal, and a combination square mainly for measuring and layout rather than scoring the wood for joints.