This guide is based on a video by Jon Peters from Longview Woodworking.
With nearly 40 years of experience, Jon breaks down the core tools that every beginner should consider when starting out in woodworking.
These aren’t just nice-to-have tools—they’re foundational pieces that allow you to complete real projects confidently and safely.
Whether you’re interested in building furniture, tackling home renovations, or simply setting up a home workshop, this list will help you make smart decisions without overspending.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jon’s channel:
Start with the Table Saw
According to Jon, the table saw is the heart of any small woodworking shop. It handles nearly all basic cuts—from ripping boards to breaking down plywood—quickly and with precision.
He currently uses a high-end SawStop table saw with advanced safety features, but he’s quick to point out that beginners don’t need to start with a premium model.
In fact, his early career was built using a Delta contractor saw and later a Powermatic—both affordable options that lasted for decades.
A solid table saw offers accuracy, power, and versatility. It’s the tool you’ll return to again and again, no matter the project.
Nail Gun and Compressor Combo
Next up is a nail gun paired with a small air compressor. This combo speeds up joinery work and creates strong, clean connections without splitting the wood.
Jon recommends starting with an 18-gauge nailer for general tasks and a 23-gauge for trim or fine work.
Together, these tools handle most home and shop builds without the need for excessive clamping or long drying times.
A good-quality combo kit typically costs between $300 and $400. It’s a worthwhile upgrade that will significantly increase your speed and precision—especially when compared to traditional hammer-and-nail methods.
Add a Miter Saw for Precision Angles
While a circular saw can get you started, a miter saw quickly becomes essential for clean, consistent angled cuts.
It’s ideal for baseboards, picture frames, door casings, and crown molding.
Jon recommends a sliding miter saw if it’s within budget, but even an entry-level compound miter saw will handle most beginner tasks. Brands like Delta, Hitachi, and Bosch offer reliable models that balance price with performance.
This tool shines when it comes to finish carpentry and repeatable angled cuts, making it a great investment as your project list grows.
Circular Saw and Drill Driver Combo
A cordless circular saw and drill driver kit forms another essential piece of the beginner toolkit.
These tools are commonly sold as a combo kit and are useful for dozens of tasks around the shop and home.
The circular saw is perfect for cutting sheet goods, trimming lumber, and making fast straight cuts when a table saw isn’t practical. The drill driver handles everything from pre-drilling holes to driving screws.
When choosing a combo, it’s helpful to stick with one battery platform—this allows you to swap batteries between tools and saves both money and time.
Brands like Makita, Milwaukee, Ryobi, and Ridgid all offer quality kits in the $350 to $550 range.
Add a Cordless Router for Clean Edges
Once the basics are covered, Jon suggests picking up a compact cordless router. It’s perfect for shaping edges, trimming joinery, and adding decorative touches.
He prefers a cordless version for ease of movement and less clutter in the workshop. Using just a few key bits—a chamfer, round-over, flush trim, and bead molding—Jon completes the majority of his detailing work.
This small but powerful tool helps elevate the look of every project by cleaning up edges and adding subtle design details that make a big difference.
Don’t Forget the Sander
Sanding might be one of the most overlooked steps in woodworking, but it’s critical to achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish.
Jon recommends starting with a random orbital sander—no need for anything fancy.
Affordable models in the $75 to $100 range will get the job done.
Over time, you can explore dust collection systems or higher-end sanders, but most beginners will find a simple tool more than sufficient.
Sanding ensures your project feels just as good as it looks. A smooth surface enhances finish adhesion and creates a polished final result.
The Six Tools You Need to Get Started
Here’s a quick summary of Jon’s beginner toolkit:
- Table Saw – The core of the workshop for ripping, crosscuts, and general sizing
- Nail Gun and Compressor – For fast, clean joinery without clamps
- Miter Saw – For repeatable angled cuts in finish and framing work
- Circular Saw + Drill Driver Combo – Portable and versatile tools for cutting and assembly
- Cordless Router – For shaping edges and light joinery work
- Random Orbital Sander – For smoothing surfaces and prepping for finish
With these six tools, you’ll be equipped to take on a wide variety of furniture builds, shop projects, and even light remodeling.
As you gain experience, you can expand your collection with specialty tools, but this list gives you a strong foundation.
Final Thoughts
Jon’s advice centers around building confidence through simplicity. Rather than buying every tool on the shelf, focus on acquiring a handful of essentials that will serve you across dozens of project types.
As your skills grow, so will your understanding of which tools are worth upgrading or adding.
Until then, this starter kit will help you build more, learn faster, and enjoy the process.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jon’s channel: