Phil

About Phil

Phil’s path to the pinnacle of success as HomeFixated’s Senior Writer was long and twisted. At various stages of his life, he worked as a framing carpenter, attended motorcycle mechanics school, served as an Army MP, did a hot and itchy stint installing insulation in Phoenix, owned and operated a small contracting firm doing residential renovations, and worked as an employee of a major airline (Motto: We’re not happy ‘til YOU’RE not happy). He is currently semi-retired, but continues to take on little projects, such as the total renovation of an old farmhouse. Yes, he is a slow learner. Future projects include a teardown restoration of his 1965 BMW motorcycle, and designing and building a kick-ass playhouse for his grandsons. Phil loves spending time outdoors, hanging out with family and friends, cool tools, and a cold IPA when beer o'clock rolls around.

Milwaukee Pliers – A Gripping Look At A Plethora Of Pliers

Phil February 17, 2019 Leave a Comment

Quick: What’s a tool that’s cordless, brushless, inexpensive, and a necessity in almost every tool collection? If you guessed Pliers, you’re either psychic, or you read the title above. In either case, you’re right. Pliers may not be the sexiest tools in the box, but when you need to pull, twist or get a grip on something, chances are it’s time to get a pair. The folks in Red make an incredible variety of these squeezable little tools, and they sent us an assortment to check out. Join us as we take a gripping look at as many Milwaukee pliers as we can squeeze in. Read More

AAW Partners with Rockler Stores to Host “Turning and Learning” Sessions on February 9th

Phil February 5, 2019 Leave a Comment

If you love sawdust and wood shavings, we’ve got something for you that will be a MUCH better use of your time than watching last week’s “Super” Bowl was. The American Association of Woodturners (AAW), a Minnesota-based nonprofit education organization, has partnered with Rockler Woodworking and Hardware to offer in-store “turning and learning” demonstrations in Rockler stores on Saturday, February 9th. Read More