Tools

19 posts

Essential router bits

A router is a very useful tool, and I would consider it a must-have for woodworking, along with a saw and a sander. There’s a huge selection of router bits for many different applications, hence you can buy large (and expensive) sets with e.g. 30 router bits. But in my […]

AutoBild ratchet and socket test

Earlier this year, AutoBild tested several 1/2″ ratchet/socket sets (the test was later republished in AutoBild Klassik). Perhaps unsurprisingly, German A-brand Hazet took the win. But on closer inspection of the scores, it is obvious that most criteria concern only the ratchet, and all sockets passed the test. The reason […]

Bosch AdvancedVac 20 shop vac

A shop vac is an important ingredient of every workshop, especially for woodworking. Dust collection not only keeps your workshop clean, it is also good for your health. During my research, I quickly settled upon the Bosch AdvancedVac 20, for a simple reason: it is the cheapest vac with an […]

Metabo KS 216 M Lasercut mitre saw

I initially couldn’t choose which sliding mitre saw to buy, so I decided to make do with only a track saw for the time being. With the 1m guide rail, the track saw works just fine for longer cross cuts that would require a sliding mitre saw. But when cutting […]

Choosing a Mitre saw

One of the more important power tools for a woodworking shop is a Mitre saw. As the name implies, it is used for cutting mitres, but also for cross-cutting, and most can also be used for cutting bevels (by tilting the blade). There are two types of Mitre saws: Those […]

The Systainer

Most power tool brands have a system of interlocking storage cases. This makes it easy to move multiple cases at the same time, and possibly even to lock them down in a vehicle. Probably the best-known example, at least in Europe, is the Systainer. The Systainer is usually associated with […]

Makita DSP601 track saw

One of the most important power tools for woodworking is a saw for rip (lengthwise) and cross cuts. A mitre saw can be useful, but it can only do cross cuts. There are three options that can do both: Circular saw: These are the cheapest option, but you need some […]

Makita DLX2220 drill/impact driver set

A cordless drill and impact driver are essential power tools for each workshop, and often sold as set. I initially considered Makita’s DLX3090 set, as it comes with a third battery, and a LED lamp. But looking at the price and other factors, I eventually decided to go for the […]

Choosing a cordless power tool platform

As I wrote in my article about air compressors, cordless power tools have matured, thanks to brushless motors and Lithium batteries. As a result, for most smaller workshops, cordless tools like drills, impact wrenches, and many others, are a better choice than a big noisy compressor and air tools. To […]