A chuck having first and second ends is provided with releasably fastening means at the first end for connection to a veneer lathe. The second end includes a plurality of blades extending from the longitudinal axis to the outer periphery. The backside includes an angled inward portion adjacent the outer edge for aiding the entry into a log. The leading edge includes an outwardly rounded portion adjacent the outer edge and the outer edge is outwardly rounded. The rounded portion and rounded outer edge tend to more firmly grip the ends of a log. The blades may be curved, straight or wave shaped.