A number of beginners, who are attempting to get on track with woodworking, are worried about their inability to afford an entire shop full of power tools they think are needed to get started. However, they would be happy to know that getting started in the area of wood working does not require spending a fortune.
There are actually only five woodworking tools that beginning woodworkers need to have on hand when they are just starting out. Thankfully, the majority of them are fairly inexpensive. With these five tools, beginners can undertake quite a number of woodworking projects.
Circular Saw
There are individuals who think about the circular saw as less of a fine woodworking tool and more of a carpentry tool; however, this is not necessarily so. There is arguably no other basic handheld power tool as versatile as a circular saw. When paired with a clamp-on straight-edge, this tool can virtually be as precise as a table saw. Additionally, it can handle quite a number of the tasks that would be attempted with a table saw. This is especially true when it comes to cutting medium-density fiberboard, plywood or other sheet goods. When attempting woodworking on a budget, the first handheld power tool bought should be a quality circular saw. This is because it is likely to be the most useful when getting started.
Miter Saw
After choosing the perfect table saw for your needs, you should consider the miter saw as your next major purchase. While not as costly as a good-quality table saw, the best miter saw is remarkable for compound angled cuts like mitered, beveled and combination cuts. Once your capacity to make accurate cuts with a miter saw has been developed, you will find that the circular saw does not get as much use as before.
Owning a miter saw has so many uses for finish carpentry, crown molding and trim. Be sure to look for a miter saw that has features such as: Double bevel, radial arm slide and can cut beyond 45 degree angles. Visit Protoolzone’s in-depth miter saw reviews as they cover every feature thoroughly in layman’s terms.
Jigsaw
The Jigsaw is another great tool for the beginner. It enables the user to cut circular and curved patterns in stock. It is highly likely that a band saw can cut thicker stock and will be more precise; however, the jigsaw, for the beginner, can be seamlessly effective. When it comes to versatility, go for a corded, orbital-action jigsaw with an easy blade changing system and one that feels comfortable in your hand.
Table Saw
Once the three previously mentioned handheld power tools have been acquired and you have become comfortable with using them, it will be time to purchase your first and possibly most essential woodworking tool – the table saw. This tool is the nucleus of every woodworking shop and the focus around which all other pieces of equipment are organized and used. As such, you will want to purchase the best table saw within your budget. Spend time to become knowledgeable about the features you actually want and find the table saw that is most suitable for your needs. A bit of research will reveal the most common features and assist you in determining the features needed. Additionally, you will learn how to identify whether those features are well built or merely added on because they are popular selling features.
Cordless Drill
The popularity of cordless power drills is largely due to their usefulness and portability. Typically, power drills are available in two different sizes: the ½-inch and 3/8-inch. The size is in relation to the dimension of the chuck and it indicates the biggest diameter bit that can be accommodated by the drill. For the most part, a 3/8-inch will be adequate; however, if you need to regularly drill larger holes or merely want additional power, you can consider investing more money and getting a ½-inch model.
