The best woodworking material for chiseling is hard maple. Hard maple is renowned for its exceptional durability and resistance to chipping, making it an ideal choice for precision work. Its dense grain structure and high stiffness provide a stable surface for chiseling, ensuring clean cuts and minimal tear-out. According to the American Hardwood Export Council, hard maple has a Janka hardness rating of 1450, which is significantly higher than other common woodworking materials like soft maple (870) and red oak (1290). This high hardness rating translates to better tool life and less wear on chisels, making it a preferred material for professional woodworkers.