10 Best, Must-Have Power Tools
Essential Equipment for the Handy Homeowner
By
Dusty Overby on September 17, 2009 Paslode 902000 16 Gauge Straight Finish Nailer
Must-Have Power Tool: Finish Nailer
Paslode’s cordless nailers are basically this editor’s dream tools. Typical framing and finish nailers are air-powered, which typically necessitates lugging around a compressor and hose. Not so with Paslode’s fuel powered nailers. With this finish nailer, you can drive nails ranging from 3/4″ to 2.5″ with all the power you need. This is perfect for trim work like door frames, moldings, and cabinet assembly.
Cost: $253
Bosch PS40-2A 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Impact Driver
Must-Have Power Tool: Impact Driver
If you’ve never used an impact driver before, this type of tool varies from a typical drill-driver in that it combines a hammering action with the rotation of the chuck. Bascially, this eliminates the need for pushing the tool ahead, as you work with it. The Bosch PS40-2A is a real standout, weigh just over 2 lbs, yet able to perform 80% of all impact driver applications. This model delivers up to 800 in.lbs. of max torque and may convert you to the impact driver for good.
Cost: $141
SawStop Contractor Table Saw
Must-Have Power Tool: Table Saw
We featured this the SawStop a while back, due to its jaw-dropping ability to not cut your fingers off. Beyond that, it’s just a top-notch table saw. Offered in a variety of sizes and configurations, the SawStop is as versatile as it is safe. This is just the sort of tool you’ll need for any serious wood working projects, owing to its ability to make long straight cuts.
Cost: $1600
Dewalt DW366 7.25″ Heavy Duty Circular Saw with Electric Brake
Must-Have Power Tool: Circular Saw
For a wide range of carpentry projects, the good old circular saw can be your best friend. Choosing one like the Dewalt DW364 is a good call, in that it has both the power you’ll definitely need and the feature you’ll be thankful for, particularly if you get into making some more advanced cuts. The saw is capable of making bevel cuts of up to 50 degrees and its aluminum alloy base means enough durability to make a lot of said cuts. For safety’s sake, this saw is equipped with an electric brake for quick blade halts and features a handle layout that keeps you behind the blade. Yay for fingers!
Cost: $160
Wobble Light WL500H Self-Righting Work Light
Must-Have Power Tool: Lighting
Though many of your favorite activities might be best performed in the dark, home improvement is not amongst them. Of course, you wouldn’t think of operating the other power tools we’ve recommended here without ample visibility, but other household jobs like painting and demolition need light to and, if you’re a DIYer, you’re likely pulling some long nights after work. The Wobble Light is truly a unique product. Providing tons of illumination, it’s virtually indestructible and rights itself like a land-buoy should clumsiness get the better of you. Daisy-chain several together to bring simulated daylight to your dingiest basement project.
Cost: $192
There you have it, another 10 Best for the GP books. If you haven’t figured it out, our Top 10′s have become somewhat of a regular feature here at Gear Patrol. As always, we appreciate/want your feedback. We’re also happy to take suggestions for topics and products to be included in future 10 Best Features. If you’ve got one, just give us a shout.
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