Hand Tools 101

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Hand tool knowledge is important no matter the home project you're embarking on. Recognizing the differences between a variety of home tools sets you above the rest when working on DIY home projects.

Knowing exactly what tools are really needed when one begins to stock a workshop can be a bit complicated. Tools as a rule can cost quite a bit of money, and necessary tools, especially small ones, may often be inadvertently omitted.

Hand Tools for Shaping Wood

Clamps are necessary, especially when working with wood. Several different kinds of clamps should be bought, in varying sizes.

Clamps, however, usually do not cost a lot of money, especially when one takes advantage of sales. Because clamps are usually of good quality, and tend to last for an extended period of time, it is also perfectly accepted to purchased ones that have been "gently" used.

No workshop is complete without bench chisels. Buy enough chisels so that there is at least one in each size from ¼" to 1".

Wire brushes are invaluable for cleaning metal equipment. The stiffer the bristles, the more useful the brushes will be.

There is no end to the types of saws that are available. The ones used most often in woodworking, however, and the back, tenon, and dovetail saw. Again, used saws can be bought, IF they are still in good condition, and have no missing or damaged teeth. Saws will require sharpening at intervals, in order to remain in peak working order.

Woodworking requires that wood surfaces be smoothed. This is accomplished by the use of planes. One may wish to purchase several different ones; however, a block plane and jointer are probably the two that one will wish to obtain first.

Sometimes, it is necessary to remove dried paint or other substances. This is where scrapers are utilized. A paint scraper is, of course, the best choice for removing paint, and a hand scraper will make removing other stuff easier.

Files should be well made, with attention to sturdiness. 10" is an acceptable size. One may wish to purchase a smooth file and a bastard mill file initially, then add others later.

Other Hand Tools You'll Need

A hammer is probably the most necessary piece of equipment one will need. It should be of a high quality, and the head should be securely fastened to the handle, to avoid dangerous accidents.

Chisels are best driven with the proper tool, and this usually is NOT a convenient rock, other piece of wood, or other sturdy object. A mallet works best for this type of operation.

Besides conventional wrenches, it is a good idea to purchase those wrenches that are described as Allen wrenches. They should be of varying sizes.

Screwdrivers come in two types: flat and Phillips head. Both are essential to a well-stocked workshop, and the more sizes one has, the better.

A T bevel used for measuring when cutting wood at an angle. Tape measures and steel rulers are a must for measuring distances and maintaining straight lines. A level does just what its name implies, no further explanation needed. Awls, both marking and scratch, are an asset to any workshop, as are pliers, both channel-lock and needle nose, STURDY putty and utility knives, and a protractor. some each weekend, one can more quickly obtain those tools needed.

The Friday edition of daily papers usually lists where yard/garage sales will be held, and sometimes may specify what some of the offerings are. By visiting only those that specify that hand tools are included, one can save time, gas, and effort.

One should not be hesitant to negotiate at yard/garage sales or other venues. Additionally, by waiting until later in the day, one may be able to get a very good price. Buying a number of tools from the same vendor may also net one a price reduction or discount.
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