In this article we'll be discussing power hand tools and which ones you need to get started woodworking. I'll also throw in a few "nice to have but not necessary tools" (and my wife said I couldn't say "not necessary tools" together in one sentence, I don't really mean it, I just said it).
1/2 - 2 Hp Router- This tool is such a work horse in my shop that I couldn't imagine getting along without it. The router is the king of versatility in the shop. A router can perform a variety of shaping operations using different bits. You can make your own mouldings, put a decorative edge on a table top, or round over an edge. Your options are only limited by your imagination. The router can also handle joinery, mortising, edge jointing, pattern routing, and inlay work. Adding all these options together you can quickly see why I rarely build a project without the router involved in the process.
Power Tool Router
Jigsaw- This is a great tool to have for cutting curves, circles, trimming, and crosscutting parts. A coping saw can do the job also, it just takes longer. And if you have a lot of curves to cut out you'll appreciate having a jigsaw.
Circular Saw- Just as the jigsaw shines in cutting curves, the circular saw's claim to fame is in cutting straight lines. I use a circular saw to trim down large sheet goods before I take them to the tablesaw. A circular saw is also great at crosscutting pieces that are too large to maneuver on the tablesaw. With the proper blade and a straight edge, the circular saw can do most things that a tablesaw can do.
Orbital or Random-Orbit Sanders- Sanding is probably the least liked activity in woodworking. Whenever I can save time and effort in the sanding process I will. And the best way to do this especially on flat surfaces, is with a random-orbit sander. I prefer the random-orbit to the orbit sander because it leaves a less noticeable scratch pattern.
Cordless Drill- This is a tool I use almost everyday. It's much more convenient to use than a corded drill. There are so many sizes and brands out on the market today that it can be mind blowing. The first thing to consider is what you'll be doing with it. For household repair and general woodworking, I think a 12 - 14 volt size is plenty. Weight becomes a big factor after you get up above 14 volts. It seems that woodworking magazines have an article every other month on cordless drills. Check these out and see which ones test better. Surprisingly, some 12 volts compare to 14 volts in torque and number of holes drilled, as do some 14 to 18 volt comparisons.
There are other tools that you may want to add later on, like a belt sander, a biscuit jointer, a 3 Hp router for a router table. An air compressor with a brad nailer would be nice, but the tools listed above are what I would consider the essentials. Remember, to always use your common sense when using any power tool. If it feels unsafe, don't do it. Read the manufacturer's instructions before using any tool. Some of these tools are very loud so use hearing protection. And as always wear safety glasses at all times in the shop.
Special Price!!! Dremel 220-01 Rotary Tool Work Station
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Dremel 220-01 Rotary Tool Work Station Feature
- Rotary tool work station holds more than a dozen Dremel tool models
- Converts to drill press; drills at 90-degree vertical angle and in 15-degree increments to 90 degrees horizontal
- Features a sturdy metal 56-square-inch base
- Includes work station, mounting wrench, and instructions; rotary tool not included
- Backed by a one-year limited warranty
Dremel 220-01 Rotary Tool Work Station Overview
Turn that Dremel rotary tool into a drill press with this rotary tool workstation from Dremel. The station accepts several Dremel models to drill perpendicular and angled holes in 15-degree increments from 90 degrees vertical to 90 degrees horizontal. Inch and metric markings on the base make for accurate drilling of workpieces. Depth markings with depth stop provide consistent depth adjustment, while the sturdy metal base with four clamping points holds workpieces securely in place. The workstation also holds the rotary tool steady for other tasks, such as polishing metal objects, sanding different shapes and grinding metal pieces--with greater precision and less fatigue. The stations telescoping shaft allows adjustments to any height between 16 and 29 inches. On-board storage for drill bits, cords, and wrenches keep them all in handy reach.Dremel 220-01 Rotary Tool Work Station Specifications
Ideal for crafts, hobbies, metal working, and a variety of around-the-house jobs, the 220-01 Dremel Work Station transforms any Dremel rotary tool into a tabletop drill press. It can be bolted on to your workbench, and it has the versatility to operate as a tool holder, flex shaft holder, and drill press. This rotary tool work station holds Dremel rotary tool models 4000, 3000, 400, 398, 395, 300, 285, 275, 200, 100, 8200, 800, 780, 770, and 7700 (tool not included). |
 The Dremel Work Station can be tilted in 15-degree increments. View larger. |
The Dremel Work Station gives you the flexibility to tackle hobbies, fix-it renovations, or special projects without having to invest in a variety of separate tools and attachments. Its stable, sturdy design lets you perform low-torque, high-speed jobs like drilling holes in metal to make earrings and bracelets, or sanding even the most detailed pieces of an architectural model. Measuring 56 square inches, and offering a drill depth of two inches, the sturdy, slotted base has four clamping points, while a rack and pinion feed lever ensures smooth, accurate operation.
Flexibility for Intricate Work
Whether you're buffing stones or sanding parts of a radio-controlled airplane, you'll appreciate that you can tilt the Dremel Work Station in 15-degree increments from 15 to 90 degrees horizontal -- perfect for more focused, intricate work. When you're grinding or polishing materials, the tool holder prevents slippage by keeping tools at 90 degrees, and the telescoping FlexShaft tool stand lets you adjust to any height between 16 and 29 inches. Once you've finished working for the day, place bits, collets, and wrenches in the tool caddy for easy clean-up and storage.
Easy Setup and Durable, User-Friendly Design
Easy to set up and operate, the Work Station features straightforward, durable construction. Clips keep messy cords from obscuring your visibility as you work, and inch and metric markings on the base allow for precise measurements and ensure that your adjustments are consistent, too. Compatible rotary tools attach and detach smoothly so you can polish, grind, or drill holes in stone, metal, or glass for rivets, eyelets, or cold connections of any sort.
What's in the Box
Work Station, accessory nest, mounting wrench, and instructions
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