Classic Tools That Are Still Reliable To Use
Whether you build for a living, you’re a carpenter, or perhaps an experienced DIYer with a jack of all trades type mindset — your skill is only as good as what’s inside your tool kit. If you don’t have the required tools, you’re automatically at a halt. You’re either going to have to rent them, borrow them on the spot or drop the project altogether.
This is exactly why most DIYers and contractors value classic tools — a set of tools that are super reliable and have always been. They’re mostly manual tools with manpower-dependent mechanics.
The list, however, extends to power tools as well. We’ve highlighted nine such tools in this guide — both manual and powered. So whether you’re planning to build a kit from scratch or want to diversify your existing one, let’s start with the details.
DRILL MACHINE
We’re always down for cordless drills because they’re a must for any carpenter. You can use them for pilot holes. You’ll also need an assortment of driving bits and star-shaped drivers.
Most cordless drill machines are lithium-ion powered so they carry enough punch to get you through most woods. You may still occasionally need a corded one so make sure you’ve got both. So if you’re thinking classic in terms of power tools, start with a cordless drill!
RADIAL ARM SAW
A radial arm saw is basically a circular saw that’s mounted on a sliding horizontal arm. When you’re dealing with wood, it’s never a smart idea to length long pieces of stock manually. A radial arm saw lets you do that, cut bevels or miters, form moldings, and more!
There are, however, some safety risks associated with using radial arm saws and that’s exactly why they’re not much popular anymore.
ANGLE GRINDER
An angle grinder is any DIY-er’s go-to tool because it’s super handy and can cut through almost anything, even concrete. You may have to learn how to use it properly and safely first. It comes with an assortment of blades (you can also purchase them separately).
OSCILLATING CUTTER
An oscillating cutter has a blade that vibrates at high speed. The benefit? You can use it in hard-to-reach places and make narrow trims easily without having to knock or tear open the whole wall.
PAINT SPRAYER
The benefit of using paint sprayers over brushes is that sprayed paint reaches hard-to-reach areas uniformly. It also doesn’t leave any texture or empty spots behind. Old paint sprayers had a manual clutch mechanism — current ones operate through a compressor.
HAMMER
While you can’t deny the ease an electric nailer brings, it can still never sideline the benefits of a hammer. Need to drive a nail through wood or concrete? Need to knock down a false cabinet? Want to pull out a nail? A hammer will take care of it all!
PLIERS
Nothing compares to the ease of using pliers when dealing with wires, pulling out nails, or driving nuts in hard-to-reach areas.
CHISELS
Chisels are super important when you’re breaking down tiles, removing hardwood floors, or just need aid for your sledgehammer during demolition.
PLUMP BOBS
Plump bobs are basically just weighted objects that are hung with a thin but strong string. They’re used to determine the y-axis and ensure if a wall built is absolutely straight. They’re used to this date regularly by both builders and woodworkers — thanks to nature’s offering, gravity.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Most classic tools highlighted above are ideal for DIYers and woodworkers. If you have them, you’ll be able to go about most of your projects easily. Always make sure to wear your safety gear and be extra careful with power tools like an angle grinder, drill, and radial arm saw.