Use the right tool for the job

“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?

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.

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.

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&#174 might just
be one of the most helpful tools ever created.

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.

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&#174, 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.