• For many years, only manual tools such as chisels could be used to cut bricks. But a number of modern power tools can do the job if you have the right type of blade. Brick cutting also requires extreme caution.
  
  

Masonry Hammer

• A masonry hammer is the most popular manual tool used to cut brick, stone and other blocks. These hammers usually weight between 15 and 24 ounces with wood, steel or fiberglass handles. Similar in shape to a regular hammer, a masonry hammer's flat end is usually square shaped with the other end more of a straight chisel than a hooked claw.
  
  

Chop Saw

• A chop saw is the most frequently used brick-cutting tool. These power tools typically use a 14-inch diamond blade that can also cut concrete and stone. Chop saws sometimes come in "wet saw versions" that lubricate the blade with water to make cutting tougher materials easier.
  
  

Rotary Cutting Tool

• Rotary cutting tools probably offer the best combination of accuracy and affordability for many builders and craftsmen. These rotary power tools usually have cylindrical tips similar to drill bits that rotate to make intricate cuts.
  
  

Angle Grinder

• Angle grinders are mainly used for cutting metal, but they can be used for cutting brick, mortar and similar materials--if you have a diamond blade or something similar. An angle grinder can cut at speeds of up to 40,000 revolutions per minute and has two grips--one on a pivot that allows you to cut at an angle.
  
  

Water Jet Cutting Tool

• Water jet tools, one of the newest types of cutting tools, use a stream of water at ultra-high pressure--30,000 pounds per square inch--to make intricate cuts. Water jet tools can be used to cut glass, ceramic, steel, brick and stone. Water jet tools are expensive.