What tool is primarily used for chipping and shaping masonry material?

The tool primarily used for chipping and shaping masonry material is the mason hammer. This particular hammer is specifically designed for the tasks associated with masonry work, such as cutting and shaping bricks, stones, or other elements involved in construction. The mason hammer has a flat striking face on one side, which allows for precise striking and shaping, while the other side may have a chiseled edge for more intricate work.

A bricklayer's hammer, while also used in masonry, usually has a different design and is more suited for general nailing and light chipping tasks rather than dedicated shaping. The chisel is primarily an implement intended for cutting into materials rather than performing the chipping action directly associated with the hammer. The trowel is primarily used for spreading and applying materials like mortar rather than shaping or chipping masonry materials.

Overall, the mason hammer's design and function make it the most suitable tool for chipping and shaping masonry materials, distinguishing it from other tools typically used in masonry.