In “Buying Power Tools for Beginner Woodworkers,” Jon from Lincoln St. Woodworks offers invaluable advice for newcomers to the craft, focusing on how to select the right power tools without overspending.
Jon emphasizes that while the adage “buy once, cry once” may hold true for some tools, it’s not a universal rule, especially for beginners who are still exploring their needs and preferences.
Miter Saws
Jon starts with the miter saw, a staple in many workshops. He challenges the notion that beginners need to invest in high-end models right away.
Instead, he suggests that as long as a saw can be accurately adjusted to ensure the blade and fence are at a perfect 90 degrees, it doesn’t need to be expensive.
Jon shares his own experience of starting with a basic model from Harbor Freight and then upgrading to a more affordable but reliable saw from a local store. This approach allowed him to create many quality projects without breaking the bank.
Battery-Powered Hand Tools
When it comes to smaller, battery-operated hand tools like drills, drivers, and circular saws, Jon advises choosing one battery family and sticking with it.
This strategy simplifies the process and ensures compatibility across tools. He encourages viewers not to get bogged down in debates over brands, as most reputable ones offer similar quality and functionality.
Table Saws
For table saws, Jon presents three options: portable job site saws, stationary cabinet saws, and contractor-style saws, which are a hybrid of the first two.
He believes that while it’s essential not to opt for the cheapest models, breaking the bank on a first table saw isn’t necessary either.
A mid-range job site saw from brands like DeWalt, Bosch, or Makita can be a great starting point, offering the right balance of quality, functionality, and price.
Sanders
Jon also touches on sanders, recommending against both the cheapest options and the high-end models for beginners.
A reliable random orbital sander from a mid-tier brand can meet most needs without significant investment. He stresses that the quality of sandpaper is crucial, often more so than the sander itself.
Planers and Jointers
When discussing planers, Jon highly recommends the DeWalt 735 model for its reliability and capability to handle a wide range of projects.
As for jointers, he suggests that beginners might not need one immediately but advises against small benchtop models due to their limitations. Instead, saving for a larger, more reliable floor model or starting with a used six-inch jointer can be a more practical approach.
Jon’s video is packed with practical tips and honest insights, making it a must-watch for beginner woodworkers looking to build their tool collection wisely.
His advice not only helps save money but also ensures that investments are made in tools that offer real value and growth potential in woodworking.