The Top Tools in My Workshop: A Personal Preference
Introduction to My Favorite Workshop Tools
As a woodworker with a collection of tools, I have had the chance to use and own many different types of tools over the years. From hand tools like vice grips to power tools like a vintage table saw, each tool has its unique charm and utility. In this article, I will share my personal preferences and why these tools are essential in my workshop.
My Daily Tool Setup
I carry a variety of tools in my shop, but certain tools stand out as absolute must-haves. Here are the tools that form the backbone of my daily workshop tasks:
Hand Tool:The Vice Grip Pliers. I have various sizes and types of these pliers, and they are almost indestructible. They are useful for so many tasks beyond what they were intended for, making them an indispensable tool in any workshop.
Power Tool:My 1970 Craftsman Table Saw. As the original purchaser, this saw has never let me down. It is a testament to the longevity and dependability of quality power tools when maintained properly.
My Current Essential:Chain Tongs. This tool is not only convenient but also affordable. It is designed for holding cylinder pipes or other de-shaped objects, and its versatility makes it a must-have in my workshop.
Favorite Shop Tool:The 1948 Logan Model 200 10 Inch Metal Lathe. Despite having many tools accumulated over three generations, this lathe holds a special place in my heart. It remains my favorite due to its timeless design and functionality.
Stars of My Collection:My Radial Arm Saw. This tool is a cherished gem in my collection. Not only was it purchased by my wife when she was 19 using her childhood savings, but it also marked the beginning of my cabinetmaking business. This multi-purpose saw is strong, versatile, compact, and safe. It has been a cornerstone of my workshop for nearly five decades, and its safety features have ensured countless woodworking projects.
The versatility of a radial arm saw cannot be overstated. It is a powerhouse in the world of woodworking and cabinetmaking. With features such as a riving knife, a breaking device, an easy-to-reach arm adjustment, and a convenient on-off switch, it is an indispensable tool for any woodworker. I have written several Quora answers about this saw, which you can find below.
Quora Answers on Radial Arm Saws
What are some uses of radial arm saws? Do you still use a radial arm saw in your shop? What are the future concerns about a radial arm saw? What is the most effective radial arm saw? Why is a radial arm saw table constructed in 3 pieces? How do you make a miter cut at the end of a longboard? What common woodworking safety advice is actually wrong?By sharing the stories and benefits of these tools, I hope to inspire fellow woodworkers to embrace the right tools for their projects. Whether it's the robustness of a vice grip pliers, the dependability of a Craftsman table saw, the affordability and versatility of chain tongs, the timeless functionality of a metal lathe, or the unmatched versatility and safety of a radial arm saw, each tool has its place in the heart and workshop of a true woodworker.