Latest Discussions : Tools & Workshop

04:46AM | 11/11/02

Member Since: 11/09/02
9 lifetime posts

need help with a what-to-buy list

I've developed an interest in woodworking and need advice on what to buy. We have the bare-bone essentials (drill, circular saw, jig saw), but I'm looking to expand this (table saw, miter saw, router, etc.). I can't purchase everything at once and am uncertain of what order items should be purchased, as well as any recommended brands/models.
I don't need anything commercial grade, but don't want the bottom levels either. I'm looking to build home furnishings kinds of things such as bookshelves, armoires, coffee tables, etc. We eventually want to buy some land and build our own house, but that's at least a few years down the road and I would upgrade then if needed.
Thanks for your help.

Mustang

02:08PM | 11/14/02

Member Since: 01/22/02
101 lifetime posts

If you're looking to begin stocking what someday could be called a woodshop, IMO the tablesaw is the backbone of any woodshop, therefore should be the 1st major tool you purchase. You'll probably want a good contractors saw, look at Delta, Powermatic, Jet, DeWalt and look to spend in the $800-$1000 range.

willies all thumbs

04:09PM | 11/16/02

Member Since: 10/03/02
55 lifetime posts

Wow Mustang, dont get carried away, these are beginners looking for the basics to learn on, right? You cant go wrong with Black&Decker line, saws, routers, sanders. A small direct drive table saw from ***** or HD will be a good starting point.

LanobiLoomis

09:05PM | 11/22/02

Member Since: 11/22/02
10 lifetime posts

I would seriously consider Ryobi's 6-pack sold at home depot. It is an awesome deal at 399 dollars to get you started with a great selection of power tools

or pick up the Ryobi brand of things you might be interested in

I know you said you didnt want "Lower Level"
tools but consider the fact that Ryobi sold at Home Depot makes ALL of SEAR'S craftsman power tools for them in the same plants and badges them off as craftsman and you pay more for the same product

ANYWAY I am a woodcrafter for my hobby have a 20x30 shop I built myself with all RYOBI
brand tools I also build all the items you listed you would like to build

SO AS FAR as bang for the buck goes RYOBI ranks number one has a 2 year warranty which even top of the line tools dont have

PLUS you have 30 days to test them out
at home depot if you dont like them take them back but i assure you you will find them more than adequate

no i dont work for ryobi or make my living from anything associated with the sell of ryobi items i am just a satisfied customer

anyway hope that helps you

LanobiLoomis

09:07PM | 11/22/02

Member Since: 11/22/02
10 lifetime posts

one last thing if you get ryobis you can purchase everything at once

bantrimjr

05:49AM | 04/03/03

I TOO AM IN THE PROCESS OF PUTTING TOGETHER A WOOD SHOP AND CANT'T AFFORD TO BUY ALL I WANT, BUT I HAVE FOUND THAT ******* CARRIES A BRAND CALLED "TOOL SHOP" THAT IS WHAT I BUY I'M VERY PLEASED WITH THE QUALITY OF ALL I'VE PURCHASED SO FAR. HAS SAME QUALITY AS MOST BRAND NAME AND FOR A BEGINNER SUCH AS I THEY ARE FINE.
GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY CRAFTING.
AND DON'T FORGET THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL IN ANY SHOP IS THE SAFTY GEAR.

ACD

03:12PM | 04/04/03

Member Since: 10/15/02
359 lifetime posts

One tool. Shop Smith, I believe they even have financing on it. You can get 5 high quality tools in one unit. If I didnt already have the tools I have now, I would get one myself.