A machine tool and control method are disclosed. The machine tool has a tool receptacle which supports a chiseling tool so that it is movable along an axis of movement. A magneto-pneumatic striking mechanism has a primary drive, which is arranged around the axis of movement, and has a first magnetic coil and a second magnetic coil. On the axis of movement within the magnetic coils, the striking mechanism has a striker and riveting head. Furthermore, the striking mechanism has a pneumatic spring which acts on the striker. The control method provides for a pressure sensor which measures the prevailing pressure in the pneumatic spring during a movement of the striker in the direction opposite the striking direction. A controller initiates an acceleration phase at the start of a drop in pressure in the pneumatic spring. The primary drive accelerates the striker in the striking direction during the acceleration phase.