What's in my
Tool Box
Behind every successful project is a well equipped tool box. Here are a few of my recommendations to start building your collection.
Saws
Chicago Electric 10” – 15 Amp Benchtop Table Saw
Affordable, functional, safe, and easy to transport, the Chicago Electric 10”, 15 Amp Benchtop Table Saw was a great addition to my tool arsenal. It has single handedly changed the way I can approach design and building for all projects.
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw
My first power saw, the RYOBI 7-1/4” Circular Saw is a must have for all furniture type DIY projects. It is exceptional for cutting dimensional lumber as well as plywood.
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Orbital Jig Saw
I love having the RYOBI Jig Saw, especially when I want to make a rounded cut, or a sharp angle that I would be unable to cut with the circular saw. It is a versatile tool that has added greater capabilities to my DIY projects.
Hand Saws
DEWALT Single Edge Pull Saw
A thicker blade than the SUIZAN Pull saw, I use this saw for cutting thicker dowels, trim pieces, or even shims if needed. It packs more of a punch when cutting through material with a thicker blade and bigger teeth.
SUIZAN Japanese Hand Saw 8” Ultra Fine Cut Dozuki Dovetail 0.2mm Blade Pull Saw
This is my favorite hand saw, a Japanese style pull saw, this super thin blade is great for any fine cuts. I use this mostly in my attempts at finer wood working and finish cuts.
DEWALT DWHT20541 Flush Cut Saw
The thin, flexible blade of this saw gives me the ability to make thin, hard to reach trim cuts, often cuts flush with another surface. This is a must have tool for any dowel joinery.
Drills
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless ½” Drill/Driver
A basic drill, like this one, is a must have for any DIY Project. I use this tool more than any other! The RYOBI model offers great function and practicality all in one affordable drill.
DEWALT 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless 3-Speed ¼” Impact Driver
I love having the impact driver as it is a juiced-up version of the normal drill. It is a great tool for fastening applications, especially stronger, harder materials. It speeds up fastening and drilling and, in the end, always gives me a stronger fasten.
Nail Guns
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless AirStrike 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
The battery powered brad nailer that RYOBI created is made for the DIY’er. I had my eyes set on this beauty with it is compact and lightweight design and its lack of an air compressor and hoses. I use this tool for lightweight and quick fastening, usually paired with wood glue for added strength.
Sanders
RYOBI 2.6 Amp Corded 5” Random Orbital Sander
No one likes sanding, but everyone loves the final product. Having a random orbital sander makes the process somewhat more enjoyable, it makes sanding faster and more efficient.
Chicago Electric 6 Amp 3 in. x 21 in. Belt Sander
Talk about a work hog, this sander will remove material like you've never seen. It is a great addition to the tool box when working on flattening a table top.
Miscellaneous
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router (Tool Free Depth Adjustment)
A non-essential tool that I have, however, it allows me to easily and effortlessly create perfectly lined up edges. My favorite application with this tool is using the round over bit to create a smooth and seamless rounded edge on any wood product.
Empire 7” Rafter (Speed) Square
I need to make precise measurements and markings for all my projects. This was one of my first tools because I needed the ability to create perfect squared up joints and cross cuts.
Empire 12” Combination Square
This combination square is not an essential tool for most DIY projects, I bought one for its ability to give me perfectly machined edges and angles. Its blade lock function is best for when I need to set precise depth cuts.