Which tool is specifically designed for engraving metal?

The burin is a specialized engraving tool designed specifically for incising or carving into hard surfaces, particularly metals. It has a sharp point and various shapes of cutting edges that allow for detailed work, making it ideal for engraving intricate designs or text onto metal surfaces. Its design helps artisans achieve clarity and precision when creating fine details.

In contrast, a lathe is primarily used for shaping materials by rotating them against a cutting tool and is not exclusive to engraving. An extruder is used in processes like shaping plastic and clay rather than metal engraving. A chisel can certainly be used to carve, but it is generally broader and used for chiseling away material rather than the specific detail-oriented work of engraving that the burin excels at. Therefore, the burin is uniquely suited for metal engraving tasks due to its sharpness, precision, and design.