Irwin 1-1/4In Bluechip Chisel

Using the 1/4" Marples to cut a mortise in oak, the chisel repeatedly bent at the throat. It was easy to unbend, and it is straight now. I haven't had this problem with the other chisels in the set, nor with this one on pine. But they needn't have the throat so narrow.

I picked up a 1/4 to test. It took very little time to flaten and hone. Chose a piece of birch and marked a 1/4 mortis and a light wood mallet. The chisel felt good in the hand to start but as soon as I choked up the plastic would bite my finger with every tap. The chisel was almost 1/4 shorter after cutting a 1/4 mortis through 3/4 birch. Blade stayed sharp and shows no sign of damage. I would need to do a lot more work before recomending this was just my experience. Disapointed in handle not sure yet if it is fixable or turn a new one.. plus the round handle is a pain as they need flats ground in them