Power tools are essential for any type of DIY project. This article will tell you more about which power tools you should master as a beginner.
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The power tool market is huge. Basically, you can find a power tool variant of all your preferred hand tools. These tools have unique features that help beginners learn and build faster. But many people find it difficult to figure out which tools to learn first because there are so many options available.
Power tools for every beginner
We're not going to focus on any specific brand, just talking about the types of tools you should learn first. To learn more about two dominant brands of power tools, be sure to read an article by professional woodworkers Tom Bradly. Whether you're doing woodwork Home improvement Projects or simple crafts, here are the top nine power tools any beginner must learn.
1. Table saw
Everyone knows table saws because they are the standard tool for cutting wood or similar objects such as cardboard and plywood. While they are more expensive than the other tools listed here, they have many advantages.
You do not need any preliminary dimensions for table saws. You don't have to mark your wood for a precise cut. The table saw can cut smoothly along its length and does not leave any rough edges. You might not need a table saw for small home improvement projects, but if you want to make large furniture, learn how to use a table saw right away.
2. Miter saw
A miter saw has a swivel arm and a mounted saw blade that you can swivel left and right to make precise angle cuts. Miter saws go well with table saws. By combining these two, you can basically make any furniture for your home. All you need is a drill and some wood glue.
3. Drill
Every home already has or should have a power drill. No matter what type of project you're doing, you'll likely need to drill holes in it. There are different types of drills and you need to know when and how to use them. Impact drills are basic drills that you can also use as a power hammer. Rotary hammers are high-performance drilling machines for construction work. They are used to drill holes in sturdier materials like marble stone. If you want to drill large holes in the ground, use earth augers. They are the perfect replacement for shovels when digging holes. You also have to choose between cordless and cordless drills. As a beginner, we recommend that you use cordless drills. They don't have that much power, but they are perfect for smaller projects. Plus, you don't have to worry about cable management when working in small locations. The only downside, of course, is that when it runs out you have to keep charging it.
4. Impact wrench
Impact wrenches are similar in appearance to drills, but serve a different purpose. While drills are used to drill holes, impact wrenches are used to drill smaller objects like screws. They are lighter than most drills but have a higher rotational force. This increased force allows them to tighten large screws very quickly. Their mechanism enables them to drill screws more efficiently than drills or cordless screwdrivers.
5. Puzzle
One of the cheapest and most versatile power tools is the jigsaw. The other saws mentioned earlier are good at cutting along the length and give a smooth and precise cut. However, you will need a jigsaw to cut curves. With a little more experience, you can also use it to make straight cuts.
6. Band saw
Band saws are an improved version of jigsaws. Jigsaws create a mess by leaving a lot of sawdust, but band saws don't create such a mess. They also have bigger blades. This way you can cut larger pieces of wood or several pieces at the same time to save time. However, band saws are more expensive and take up more space compared to jigsaws.
7. Circular saws
Circular saws are used on almost all construction sites for cutting wood and other objects. But you can use them for yours Home improvement also project. Most people think that because they are handheld tools, they can be used to cut curves. In reality, they're better at cutting thicker pieces of wood in a straight line. You can damage the wood surface if you try to cut curves with it.
8. Eccentric sander
For woodworking, you need to sand and polish your final product. Regardless of whether you use wood, stone or metal as the material, grinding results in a beautiful, shiny and visually appealing finish. But grinding can be a frustrating and time-consuming task – even with a power tool. Your best option here would be to use a random orbit sander. Eccentric sanders have a random rotary movement and do not leave any scratches or whirl marks on your product. You can also use it to restore the transparency of your headlights or for paint jobs.
9. Oscillating multi-tool
An oscillating multitool is the all-rounder. It's a small, affordable tool that can be assembled with multiple attachments. Thanks to this, you can use a multitool for sawing, cutting, sanding, scraping and even removing grout.
Here are some of the best attachments for your oscillating multitool and what they can do:
- A straight edge on your multitool for trimming excess wood from shelves, cabinets or other parts.
- Attach a round oscillating blade for linear cuts and a straight blade for straight cuts.
- A burning blade for easily cutting through door jambs.
- A bi-metal cutting blade for cutting off rusty faucet nuts and other metals.
- A carbide or diamond blade for removing grout from under the tiles.
These are just a few of the ways you can use this amazing tool. Modern multitools have even more attachments.
Should you buy branded or refurbished?
For your first power tool, it is best to choose a branded tool. It can be expensive, but it's more reliable than a refurbished one. Used power tools need a thorough inspection because you don't know how they're treated beforehand. Hence, it is best to go for a safe, popular brand.
Last thought
You don't need a huge workshop full of expensive power tools. Buy some of these basic tools to hone your skills and once you get the hang of it, you can move on to more advanced tools. Power tools are fun, but can be dangerous if you're not careful. Therefore, always adhere to the safety standards.
