This list is in no particular order, over the years I have found some cool gadgets to use around the shop, here is my list of ones that I tend to use the most.
#1 Pica-Dry Pencil
This is one of those items I saw and told myself “why would I need that?” I constantly used carpenter pencils for my woodworking and pens. However when I switched to the Pica I feel my life changed for the better. All jokes aside this pencil is great for marking wood, it has a thick led that doesn’t easily break, it clips to your pocket and has a sleeve. Love this product highly highly HIGHLY recommend picking this up.
Pros:
- Versatility: The Pica Dry Pencil can write on a variety of surfaces including wood, metal, glass, and tiles.
- Refillable: It is designed to be easily refillable with different types of leads (graphite, color, etc.).
- Built-in Sharpener: It has a built-in sharpener in the cap, making it convenient to maintain a sharp point.
- Durability: The pencil is robust and designed to withstand tough working conditions, making it ideal for construction sites and DIY projects.
- Waterproof Leads: The leads are often waterproof, allowing markings to withstand exposure to water.
- Precision: The thin, durable lead allows for precise marking even in tight spaces.
- Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
Cons:
- Cost: The initial cost is higher compared to regular pencils.
- Availability of Refills: Finding specific types of leads might be difficult in some areas.
- Size: It is bulkier than standard pencils, which might be inconvenient for some users.
- Lead Breakage: The lead, while durable, can still break under heavy pressure or rough handling.
- Learning Curve: Users accustomed to traditional pencils might need some time to adjust to its unique features and design.
- Replacement Parts: The sharpener and other parts might wear out and require replacements over time.
#2 Kreg Panel Carrier
This seems like a pointless purchase at first, Trust me though once your stuck trying to move a 5×8 sheet of plywood or MDF you’ll hopefully reference this article and purchase this product. This once is simply and straight to the point this basically allows you to carry a sheet of plywood one handed. Now trust me they still weigh as much as they do but now your not doing that full sheet shuffle as I like to call it.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: Designed to simplify the task of carrying large panels, making it easier and safer.
- Ergonomic Design: Comfortable grip and ergonomic handle reduce strain on hands and back.
- Improved Safety: Helps to balance the load, reducing the risk of dropping heavy panels and potential injury.
- Durability: Made from robust materials to withstand heavy use and support substantial weight.
- Versatility: Suitable for carrying a variety of panel materials, including plywood, drywall, and MDF.
- Portability: Lightweight and easy to transport, making it convenient for both professional and DIY use.
Cons:
- Cost: Higher initial cost compared to traditional carrying methods or DIY solutions.
- Learning Curve: Users may need time to get accustomed to the proper technique for using the carrier effectively.
- Size Limitation: While versatile, there may be limitations on the maximum size or thickness of the panels it can handle comfortably.
- Specific Use: Primarily designed for panel materials, so it may not be useful for other types of carrying tasks.
#3 Japanese Hand Saw 6 Inch Double Edge Sided Pull Saw
Using a Japanese Hand Saw 6 Inch Double Edge Sided Pull Saw offers numerous benefits that can greatly enhance your woodworking experience. This saw’s pull-stroke allows for more controlled and precise cuts. Its dual cutting edges provide versatility, enabling you to perform both rip cuts and crosscuts with a single tool. Overall, the Japanese Hand Saw 6 Inch Double Edge Sided Pull Saw combines precision, efficiency, and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any woodworker’s toolkit
Pros:
- Precision Cutting: Japanese handsaws are known for their fine, precise cuts, making them ideal for detailed woodworking.
- Pull-Stroke Action: The saw cuts on the pull stroke, providing greater control and reducing the chance of the blade bending or binding.
- Thin Kerf: The thin blade reduces waste and allows for smoother, more accurate cuts.
- Sharp Teeth: Typically has very sharp teeth that stay sharp longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Versatility: Can be used for a variety of cuts including crosscuts, rip cuts, and fine joinery.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to handle and transport, making it suitable for both workshop and field use.
- Efficient: Requires less effort compared to Western push-stroke saws, which can be less tiring over extended use.
Cons:
- Fragility: The thin blade, while precise, can be more prone to damage if not used carefully.
- Learning Curve: Users accustomed to Western saws may need time to adjust to the pull-stroke action.
- Replacement Blades: The blades can be more expensive to replace, and may not be as readily available as those for Western saws.
- Cutting Speed: May be slower for some tasks compared to more aggressive Western saws.
- Handle Design: The traditional straight handle may be less comfortable for some users compared to the pistol-grip style of Western saws.
- Maintenance: The teeth are often set in a way that makes them harder to sharpen without specialized tools and skills.
#4 Wood Glue Dispenser
If anyone has ever tried to glue something vertically you know the struggles of trying to tip the bottle over perfectly so you get a good flow. with these style of bottles you can technically dispense the glue at any angle which overtime is something I use daily in my own shop. Pair this with a glue roller and you have yourself a mess free experience!
Pros:
- Precision Application: Allows for precise control over the amount and placement of glue, reducing waste and mess.
- Time-Saving: Speeds up the gluing process, especially on larger projects or where multiple glue joints are needed.
- Consistency: Ensures a consistent flow of glue, leading to more uniform joints and better adhesion.
- Reduced Waste: Minimizes glue wastage compared to applying glue directly from the bottle.
- Ergonomic Design: Often designed to be comfortable to hold and use for extended periods, reducing hand fatigue.
- Cleanliness: Helps keep work areas cleaner by reducing drips and spills.
- Variety: Available in different types and sizes, including bottle caps with built-in applicators, roller applicators, and syringe-style dispensers.
Cons:
- Cost: Additional expense compared to using the glue bottle directly.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning to prevent glue from hardening and clogging the dispenser.
- Learning Curve: May take some practice to achieve the right flow rate and application technique.
- Durability: Some dispensers might be prone to breakage or wear out over time, requiring replacements.
- Clogging Issues: If not cleaned properly, dispensers can become clogged, disrupting workflow.
- Limited Use: Designed specifically for wood glue, so they may not be as useful for other types of adhesives.
- Storage: Needs proper storage to prevent the glue from drying out inside the dispenser.
#5 Double Sided Woodworking Tape
Double-sided wood tape offers several advantages. Its strong adhesive ensures a secure bond between surfaces, allowing for reliable temporary holds or permanent fixes depending on the project’s needs. This tape is particularly useful for positioning and aligning pieces without the need for clamps, which can simplify and speed up assembly tasks. Additionally, it leaves no residue upon removal, preserving the integrity of the wood surfaces. Its ease of use and versatility in various applications, from holding templates in place to joining pieces during dry fitting, enhance its practicality in any woodworking project.
Pros:
- Strong Adhesion: Provides a strong bond between two surfaces without the need for clamps or screws.
- Versatility: Can be used for a variety of woodworking applications such as attaching temporary jigs, templates, or securing workpieces for routing.
- Time-Saving: Speeds up assembly and reduces the need for traditional clamping methods, especially for smaller projects.
- Clean Application: Minimizes mess compared to glue or other adhesives.
- Temporary Bonding: Allows for temporary attachments that can be easily removed without leaving residue or damaging surfaces.
- Conformability: Can conform to uneven surfaces, helping to ensure a strong bond.
- Thin Profile: Doesn’t add much thickness between surfaces, which can be beneficial for precise assemblies.
Cons:
- Bond Strength: While strong, may not be as durable or permanent as other joining methods like screws or glue.
- Surface Preparation: Requires clean, dry surfaces for optimal adhesion; may not work well on dusty or oily surfaces.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Adhesive performance can vary with temperature extremes, potentially affecting bond strength.
- Limited Load Capacity: Not suitable for heavy-duty applications or load-bearing joints.
- Removability: While designed for temporary use, removing the tape can sometimes require effort and may leave residue on surfaces.
- Cost: Can be more expensive compared to traditional clamping methods, depending on the brand and type of tape.
- Storage: Adhesive performance can degrade over time if not stored properly, leading to reduced effectiveness.
#6 Klein Tools Digital Electronic Level and Angle Gauge
Maybe this item isn’t exactly for beginners, this is mainly a convenience tool especially if you are using old table saws \ miter says. This basically allows you to check 0 and 45 degree along with any other custom angle you may need. Honestly it’s a lot easier than using hand tools.
Pros:
Cons:
- Cost: Generally more expensive than traditional bubble levels or basic angle gauges.
- Complexity: Some users may find the digital interface and features more complex than analog alternatives.
- Battery Dependency: Requires batteries for operation, which need to be replaced periodically.
- Fragility: Electronics can be more susceptible to damage compared to mechanical tools.
- Calibration: May require occasional calibration to maintain accuracy, which can be an additional step for users.
- Size and Weight: Can be bulkier and heavier than simpler analog tools, which might affect portability and ease of handling in tight spaces.
- Visibility: Digital displays may be harder to read in bright sunlight or low-light conditions compared to traditional bubble levels.
#7 Automatic Vacuum Switch Allow Power Tool
I highly stress the idea of good dust extraction. This will allow the vacuum to turn around when you turn on your saw or whatever else you have plugged into the device. This is
Pros:
- Convenience: Automatically turns on the vacuum when the power tool is activated, eliminating the need to manually switch on/off the vacuum.
- Efficiency: Reduces dust and debris in the workspace by ensuring the vacuum operates whenever the power tool is in use.
- Safety: Helps maintain a cleaner work environment, reducing the risk of dust-related health issues and improving visibility.
- Energy Savings: Ensures the vacuum runs only when necessary, saving energy compared to leaving it on continuously.
- Compatibility: Designed to work with a variety of power tools and vacuum systems, enhancing versatility in different workshop setups.
- Easy Installation: Typically straightforward to install and integrate into existing workshop setups.
- Durability: Built to withstand the demands of workshop environments, providing long-term reliability.
Cons:
- Cost: Can be an additional expense compared to manually operated vacuum systems.
- Compatibility Issues: Some models may not be compatible with all types of power tools or vacuum systems, requiring careful selection.
- Activation Delay: Depending on the model, there may be a slight delay in vacuum activation after the power tool starts, which could affect workflow.
- Noise: Some automatic switches may produce audible clicks or noise when activating, which can be distracting in quiet workshop settings.
- Maintenance: Requires periodic maintenance and attention to ensure proper functionality.
- Dependence on Power Tool: Relies on the power tool’s activation signal, so may not be suitable for all tools or situations where precise control is needed.
- Learning Curve: Users may need time to adjust to the automatic switching feature if they are accustomed to manual control of their vacuum system.
#8 Adjustable Wood Countersink Drill Bit Set
Far too long was I using both my drills to accomplish one task, one would drill the hole the other would set a countersink for the screws. With this it obviously does both in one
Pros:
- Versatility: Adjustable depth settings allow for different countersink depths to match various screw sizes and wood thicknesses.
- Efficiency: Combines drilling and countersinking into one step, saving time and effort during woodworking projects.
- Precision: Provides accurate and consistent countersink holes, ensuring screws sit flush with or below the wood surface.
- Ease of Use: Typically easy to adjust and use, suitable for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
- Compatibility: Can be used with a wide range of drill types (cordless, corded, etc.) and materials (softwoods, hardwoods, composite materials).
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials to withstand repeated use and maintain sharp cutting edges.
- Cost-Effective: Affordable compared to buying separate drill bits and countersinks.
Cons:
- Limited Depth Range: Adjustable depth may have a limit on how deep or shallow it can drill/countersink, which may not be suitable for all projects.
- Bit Size Limitation: Some sets may have a limited range of bit sizes, potentially requiring additional sets for larger or smaller screws.
- Speed Control: Requires careful control of drill speed and pressure to avoid overheating or damaging the wood or drill bit.
- Chip Removal: May require frequent clearing of chips to prevent clogging and maintain cutting efficiency.
- Compatibility Issues: Not all adjustable countersink sets may be compatible with all types of screws or wood types.
- Sharpness Maintenance: Like all drill bits, requires periodic sharpening or replacement to maintain cutting efficiency.
- Noise and Vibration: Can produce noise and vibration during operation, requiring appropriate safety precautions and protection.