A comment by a friend on a different venue started a self dialog. The jumping off point was a question about the new production Stanley 750 chisels. While the 750's are not my favorite for general use they are for any chopping not requiring the use of a pig sticker. BTW, I expect anything said about the 750's would also apply to the LN Bench chisels.
What makes the 750 a good chopping chisel is the combination of a socket and the Hornbeam handle with iron that will stand up to some abuse. The chisel is also "short".
No need to go into socket vs. tang when chopping, a socket is better suited. The Hornbeam handle is the key, it is almost as indestructible as one of the yellow plastic ones. I've had a set of the new Stanley's almost from the get go and have whacked away at 'em with abandon and whatever hammer/mallet was at hand and none of the handles show the slightest signs of abuse. Short is personal, I like a short handle on a chopping chisel. I feel it gives better control. The iron on the "new" 750's is kinda average not something to write home about but holds up well to abuse. I would expect the LN version sharpened to a 35 degree secondary bevel would be better than "kinda average".
Anyway, bottom line, the "new" Stanley 750 chisels are my go to chopping chisels for the reasons stated. What's yours?
ken
P.S. Can you tell I'm at lose ends while waiting for tomorrow's back surgery. Not much to do other than sit at the computer and sip whisky (slipping whisky ain't all bad ). Shop activities are very limited...Sharpening iron and making practice joints are about it and even that is limited.