DIY Weekend – Choosing the Right Power Tools

Guest Blogger #660, Entry #1570, September 7, 2012

Choosing power tools can seem like a daunting task. There are a bewildering variety of different tools available, each with its own specialised function, strengths and weaknesses. In fact, if you’re just buying a core set of power tools for doing some DIY work around the home, you’ll find that you can accomplish many tasks with a relatively simple group of four tools.

What DIY project are you getting into this weekend?

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Power drill

The first acquisition for your tool set should be a power drill. In fact, “drill” is something of a misnomer, since these versatile pieces of equipment can also drive screws and perform a number of other tasks. A cordless model is best, particularly if you intend to do any work outdoors.

When choosing a cordless power drill, there are a number of factors to consider. Cost is an obvious consideration, as is power. High-end cordless drills have 18v motors, capable of drilling through very tough surfaces. However, high-powered motors have some downsides. For one thing, they tend to be heavier, which can make long periods of use more difficult. Battery life is also an important thing to consider. If you need to use your drill for time-consuming jobs without recharging, you’ll need to make sure you have the battery life you need.

Circular saw

A circular saw is another useful tool for a wide variety of jobs, particularly in woodworking. As with drills, power is a major consideration when buying a circular saw. Powerful worm-drive saws can cut through almost anything, including wet wood and concrete. For lighter jobs, simpler sidewinder saws, where the motor sits alongside the blade, are perfectly adequate. Sidewinders also have the advantage of being smaller, lighter and less expensive than their worm-drive counterparts. Again, battery life is an important consideration. Corded models are a more realistic option for saws, since many users will be sawing only in a workshop or shed.

Do you have the right power tools this weekend?

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Reciprocating Saw

Reciprocating saws are used for smaller, more precise tasks than circular saws, or for jobs where the item needing to be cut cannot be moved. Pipes The most popular brand of reciprocating saw is Sawzall, so much so that many people use the term to mean all reciprocating saws. Just as with drills, both cordless and corded varieties are available. A cordless reciprocating saw is probably not necessary unless you intend to do a lot of fine sawing outside the home, such as trimming branches.

Most DIY enthusiasts would agree on these three core power tools, but opinions might differ on other necessary tools. Some would advocate a rotary tool, used for very fine sawing or grinding. This type of tool is useful for fine metalwork or other types of cutting or engraving. For general use, though, a cordless handheld oscillating multi-tool is the best all-round item to round out your tool kit. These small devices fit a variety of different heads and can be used for sanding, removing grout or adhesive, and small metal grinding jobs.

With all power tools, ease of use is one of the most important factors. Never buy a power tool without first holding it in your hand to get a feel for its weight and grip. Prolonged work with an uncomfortable tool produces bad results and can be very painful into the bargain. Whether you’re buying a saw, a drill or a multi-tool, the most important factor is how well the tool fits you.

So we presented three essential power tools that every DIY enthusiast should have. Have we missed any essential power tools out? Let us know in the comments section.

 This is a guest post on behalf of HSS who offer power tools as well as other essential DIY products for hire.

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