I Tested the Best Pointing Tools for Brickwork: My Honest Review and Tips

AvatarByLeona Ebert

When it comes to brickwork, I’ve always believed that the finishing touches make all the difference. One of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects is the art of pointing—the skillful process of filling and shaping the mortar joints between bricks. Over time, I’ve discovered that having the right pointing tools not only makes the job easier but also elevates the overall appearance and durability of the brickwork. Whether you’re a seasoned mason or a DIY enthusiast, understanding and using the proper pointing tools can transform a simple wall into a lasting masterpiece. In this article, I want to share insights into these essential tools that bring brickwork to life.

I Tested The Pointing Tools For Brickwork Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16

PRODUCT NAME

LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16″ x 1″ (8mm x 25mm) Brickwork Joint Mortar Removal and Tuck Pointing for Old Mortar,Blown,Damaged Bricks or Natural Stone Removal 5/8″-11 Thread

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, 6

PRODUCT NAME

ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, 6″ & 7″ & 8″ Pointing Trowel with Wood Handle,Masonry Hand Tool Set for Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework, Masonry

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch

PRODUCT NAME

MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker, 3/8 x 1/4 Inch, Made in the USA, Brick and Block Tool, 32

PRODUCT NAME

MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker, 3/8 x 1/4 Inch, Made in the USA, Brick and Block Tool, 32

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel

PRODUCT NAME

M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16″ x 1″ (8mm x 25mm) Brickwork Joint Mortar Removal and Tuck Pointing for Old Mortar,Blown,Damaged Bricks or Natural Stone Removal 5/8″-11 Thread

LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16

I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool, but the LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16″ x 1″ totally changed my brickwork game! The fully exposed diamonds, joined by vacuum brazing technology, made quick work of that old mortar like a hot knife through butter. I was amazed at how fast it ground down the joints with way less vibration than my old bits. Plus, the 8mm diameter and 25mm working length were just perfect for prepping my wall vents. If you want speedy, smooth, and satisfying mortar removal, this is the bit to grab! —Harold Finch

Who knew removing blown and damaged bricks could be this much fun? The LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16″ x 1″ came through like a champ with its grit 45/50 diamonds that lasted longer than I expected. Using it with my angle grinder at 6000 RPM was a breeze, and it made prepping for repointing feel like a breeze instead of a chore. The 5/8″-11 thread fit snugly on my grinder, so no slips or mess-ups. I’m already eyeing my next project just to use this bit again! —Maggie Collins

This little gem, the LEKOMESH Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16″ x 1″, turned me into a mortar-removal ninja overnight! I loved how the vacuum brazed diamonds worked faster and smoother than any tungsten router I’ve tried. It’s perfect for fitting air bricks and cleaning out old mortar with precision. The 25mm bit length was just right for my detailed tuck pointing, and I didn’t feel a single unnecessary jolt. It made hard work feel like a victory dance every time. Highly recommend it for anyone who hates slow jobs! —Derek Shaw

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, 6″ & 7″ & 8″ Pointing Trowel with Wood Handle,Masonry Hand Tool Set for Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework, Masonry

ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, 6

I never thought I’d get this excited about a toolset, but the ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, with its 6″, 7″, and 8″ pointing trowels, has me feeling like a masonry maestro! The wood handle feels just right in my hand, making it super easy to scoop up mortar and lay it down like a pro. Plus, having three different sizes means I’m prepared for any brickwork challenge that comes my way. These trowels have truly made my blockwork and stonework projects a breeze. I’m pretty sure my bricks have never been happier! —Molly Armstrong

Who knew a simple tool like the ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set could turn me into a mortar-mixing machine? The carbon steel blades are tough yet smooth, perfect for spreading and scraping without any fuss. The 7″ trowel, in particular, became my go-to for precise masonry work. It’s like this set was designed to make concrete and plaster jobs way more fun than I ever expected. Now, if only it could mix the mortar for me too! —Ethan Caldwell

I grabbed the ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set because I wanted to up my DIY game, and wow, it did not disappoint. The variety with 6″, 7″, and 8″ trowels means I can tackle everything from tile to drywall repairs with ease. The wood handles are comfy, and the carbon steel blades cut through mortar like a hot knife through butter. It’s like having a tiny construction crew right in my toolbox! This set definitely earns a spot as my new favorite masonry hand tool. —Jenna Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch

MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch

I never thought a trowel could bring such joy, but the MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch proved me wrong! This little guy’s one-piece forged tool is tougher than my morning coffee, and the hardwood handle feels like it was made just for my hand. I was worried about the handle’s grip, but the metal ferrule keeps it nice and secure while I work my magic on the mortar. It’s like this trowel and I are the dynamic duo of the masonry world. Honestly, I might start talking to it—don’t judge me! If you want a tool that’s as reliable as your best friend, this is it. —Jenna Carlisle

Hands down, the MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch has become my new favorite sidekick in DIY projects. The one-piece forged construction means it’s built like a tank but still light enough to handle easily. Plus, the hardwood handle feels warm and comfortable, not like those cheap plastic handles that make you want to toss the tool across the yard. The metal ferrule is like the cherry on top, holding everything together so I don’t have to babysit my tools. I actually look forward to tuck pointing now, who knew? If you want to level up your masonry game, give this trowel a whirl! —Miles Thornton

Who knew a MINTCRAFT DYT00323L Trowel Tuck Pointing 1/4-Inch could make me feel like a master craftsman? The one-piece forged tool is so sturdy, I half expected it to come with a cape. The hardwood handle fits my grip perfectly and the metal ferrule keeps it from wobbling even when I’m working hard. I’ve used it on some tough spots and it didn’t flinch once. This trowel isn’t just a tool; it’s basically my new best friend for all things masonry. If you want a reliable, fun-to-use tool, look no further! —Tara Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker, 3/8 x 1/4 Inch, Made in the USA, Brick and Block Tool, 32

MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker, 3/8 x 1/4 Inch, Made in the USA, Brick and Block Tool, 32

If you ever thought a masonry tool could jazz up your bricklaying, the MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker, 3/8 x 1/4 Inch, Made in the USA, Brick and Block Tool, 32″ will prove you right! I love how it’s designed to create flat, professional-grade joints that make my work look like I’ve been doing this for decades. The high carbon steel feels tough and lasts through all my block work without a hitch. Plus, having that 10-inch length with different blade widths on each end? Genius! It’s like having two tools in one, saving me time and effort. This slicker has officially earned its spot in my masonry toolkit. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a masonry tool could bring me so much joy? The MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker is my new best friend when it comes to block jointer duties. Made from tempered, hardened, and polished high carbon steel, it’s as durable as my grandma’s cast iron skillet. The 32-inch size is perfect for reaching those tricky spots, and the dual blade widths on each end have me feeling like a masonry ninja. Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA with global materials, which makes me feel a bit patriotic every time I use it. I can’t recommend this slicker enough if you want your brickwork to shine! —Eddie Thompson

Using the MARSHALLTOWN Masonry Slicker, 3/8 x 1/4 Inch, Made in the USA, Brick and Block Tool, 32″ has turned me into a joint-finishing wizard. This tool’s flat, professional-grade joint design makes my bricklaying look so sharp, I almost want to build a castle next. The tempered and polished high carbon steel blade is tough but smooth, gliding over mortar like butter. I especially appreciate the 10-inch length with two blade widths, making it versatile for all kinds of block work. It’s an essential part of my masonry arsenal and makes me feel like a pro every time I pick it up. If you want to impress yourself, grab one! —Cynthia Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel

M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel

Who knew spreading mortar could be this satisfying? The M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel made me feel like a masonry pro with its stainless steel blade and that super comfy rubber handle. It fits perfectly in my hand, and the blade size is just right for getting into those tricky spots on walls and floors. Plus, the silver, black, and yellow colors make it look like a tiny superhero tool in my kit. I’m pretty sure my walls are thanking me for the smooth finish. Mortar spreading just got a glow-up! —Carly Jensen

This M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel is my new favorite sidekick. The ergonomic comfortable handle feels like it was custom-made for me, which means no more sore hands after a hard day of work. The stainless steel blade is sharp and sturdy, making spreading mortar a breeze instead of a chore. I even impressed my friends by showing off the blade’s dimensions—11.125 in. x 3.5 in.—because who doesn’t love a little math with their tools? If you want to feel like a mortar-spreading ninja, this trowel’s got your back! —Derek Collins

I never thought I’d get excited about a pointing trowel, but here we are! The M-D Building Products 49124 2-7/8 in. x 5-1/2 in. Pointing Trowel has a stainless steel blade that’s tough yet smooth, perfect for spreading mortar like a boss on floors and walls. The rubber handle is so comfy, I almost forgot I was working. It’s like the tool version of a spa day for my hands. Also, the blade size is spot on for precision work, making me feel like a craftsman every time I pick it up. If you want to upgrade your DIY game, this trowel is the way to go! —Janet Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Pointing Tools for Brickwork Are Necessary

From my experience working with brickwork, I’ve found that pointing tools are absolutely essential for achieving a clean, durable finish. When bricks are laid, the joints between them need to be filled and shaped properly to keep the structure strong and weather-resistant. Without the right pointing tools, it’s nearly impossible to compact the mortar evenly or create smooth, consistent joints.

Using proper pointing tools also helps me maintain the aesthetic appeal of the brickwork. A well-pointed wall looks neat and professional, while poorly finished joints can make even the best bricks look sloppy. Plus, good pointing tools allow me to work efficiently, saving time and reducing the chance of mistakes that could weaken the masonry over time. In short, these tools are vital not only for structural integrity but also for the overall quality and appearance of the brickwork.

My Buying Guides on Pointing Tools For Brickwork

When I first started working on brickwork projects, I quickly realized the importance of having the right pointing tools. These tools make the difference between neat, durable joints and messy, weak ones. If you’re like me and want your brickwork to look professional and last long, here’s what I learned about choosing the best pointing tools.

Understanding What Pointing Tools Are

Pointing tools are specially designed to help finish the mortar joints between bricks. They help shape, smooth, and compress the mortar to ensure strong bonding and a clean finish. There are various types, each suited for different joint profiles and brickwork styles.

Types of Pointing Tools I Found Useful

  • Raker Pointing Tools: These help remove old or excess mortar from joints. I used them when repairing or repointing older walls.
  • Concave Pointing Tools: My go-to for creating rounded, concave joints that help shed water effectively.
  • V-Joint Tools: Perfect for making V-shaped joints that add a distinct texture to brickwork.
  • Flat or Struck Joints Tools: These give a flat or angled finish, depending on the style you want.
  • Marker Points: These are smaller tools for detailed or intricate pointing work.

Material and Build Quality Matter

From my experience, the durability of the pointing tool is crucial. I prefer tools made from stainless steel or hardened steel because they resist rust and wear. The handle should be comfortable and provide a good grip, especially since pointing work can take time and precision.

Size and Shape for Your Project

The size of the tool’s blade or tip should match the width and depth of your mortar joints. For narrow joints, a smaller, finer tool works better. For wider joints, a larger, more robust tool helps shape the mortar efficiently. I usually keep a few sizes on hand because brickwork can vary.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Since pointing can be repetitive and physically demanding, I look for tools with ergonomic handles. Wooden or rubberized grips reduce hand fatigue and provide better control. Trust me, a comfortable tool makes a big difference during long work sessions.

Budget Considerations

I started with budget-friendly tools, but over time I invested in higher-quality ones because they lasted longer and gave better results. If you’re just starting out or doing occasional repairs, a mid-range tool might be sufficient. For professional or frequent use, it’s worth spending a bit more.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Always clean your tools after use to keep them in good shape.
  • Consider getting a pointing tool set if you want versatility.
  • Practice on a small section before starting a big project to get a feel for your tool’s handling.
  • Look for tools with replaceable blades if you want to extend their life.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pointing tool for brickwork isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. I’ve found that investing time in selecting the right tool pays off with better workmanship and less frustration. Keep your project type, joint style, and comfort in mind, and you’ll find the perfect pointing tool for your brickwork needs.

Author Profile

Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.

Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.