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Any time you need to rip a piece of wood because it's too long or wide, you will need to use a circular saw. This is also a great multi-purpose tool that lets you perform any number of construction tasks. (AP Photo)

Use the right tool for the job

BY Rob White  on July 20, 2012 @ 12:54 pm (Updated: 1:01 pm - 7/21/12 )

"Use the right tool for the job!" How many times have you heard that phrase, either from your Dad growing up, or a boss on a job site? There's more than just an element of truth to the old saying. Sowhen you start to think about what tool you are going to reach for next, what are some of the better power tools to have on hand?

  • Power Drill ($100-300)
    • The power drill is the most basic and essential of all power tools. Power drills come either as cordless or electric with the latter being for heavy duty, more powerful jobs, and cordless being for lighter jobs while offering a little more versatility.

  • Chop Saw ($150-600)
    • Any kind of home remodel project that involves cutting studs, flooring, or molding requires a chop saw. The circular saw is a great piece of equipment that, depending on the model, allows you to make angled as well as straight cuts. They may also come with extra features like laser sights for more accurate cutting.

  • Jigsaw (reciprocating) ($100-250)
    • The jigsaw allows you to go where the chop saw doesn't, making circular and curved cuts. Generally, the jigsaw is used for carpentry although it may be fitted with blades for cutting metal. The standalone jigsaw is what most people think of first, but the corded Sawzall® might just be one of the most helpful tools ever created.

  • Table Saw ($400-4,000)
    • This is an expensive piece of equipment, but one that will last if you treat it right. Find a good one, take care of it, and remember... you get what you pay for.

  • Circular Saw ($100-300)
    • Any time you need to rip a piece of wood because it's too long or wide, you will need to use a circular saw. This is also a great multi-purpose tool that lets you perform any number of construction tasks.

    Not a comprehensive list by any means, but a great start for those people looking to stock their new home or shop with the essentials. Keep in mind that those tools that include secondary fittings such as drill bits or saw blades have reduced strength- that is to say, no matter how strong the power tool motor is, it remains only as strong as its weakest part (in this case, a bit or blade). Understanding the types of fittings that are rated for your tool is just as important as understanding the strength of the tool itself.

    It's important to recognize that different processes require various strengths of power tools. For instance, sinking a screw into drywall is different from sinking one into concrete backer board. You can get into trouble sometimes if you use a power tool for a task it isn't rated for, so make sure to understand more than just what the tool is, but what's inside it as well. As a general rule, think about the three types of power tools as dictating strength. The three main types of power tool are electric, cordless, and air. As you might expect, electrical tools such as chop saws, Sawzall®, and electric power drills are going to be heavier duty than their cordless counterparts. What is more, air driven tools (which require an air compressor) are usually a little closer to standard strength.

    Please remember, power tools are dangerous and should be approached with caution. For a number of tools, it is often essential that the first time user gets training time with them. Approaching a retailer or specialist is often a good way to get a free tutorial and make sure that your home project does not end with a trip to Harborview.

    Rob White, Home Matters Host
    Rob co-hosts Home Matters on the new 97.3 KIRO FM Weekends.
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    • HPD 5-0 wrote...
      jaysonoo7 wrote...
      July 22, 2012 8:53 am
      You do realize that went right over his head, right? At this moment, he's reading it, agreeing with you and not realizing you just made him the fool...again.
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